Exercise apparatus

ABSTRACT

An exercise apparatus comprising a base that can be oriented at any angle and that defines a plurality of connection interfaces, each of which can be designed to support one end of a resilient member in a cantilevered disposition. The connection interfaces can be positioned at or adjusted to a widely varying range of locations and angular orientations with respect to the base. Each resilient members can be configured to support one or more removable stiffening members that provide a resistance force when a force is exerted thereon so as to bend the resilient member.

PRIORITY INFORMATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/959,548, filed Aug. 5, 2013, titled “Exercise Apparatus,” which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/018,307, filed Jan.31, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,612, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/249,884, filed Oct. 10, 2008, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,878,956, issued Feb. 1, 2011, which is a continuation in partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/533,766, filed Sep. 21, 2006, nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,704,199, issued Apr. 27, 2010, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Application 60/721,669, filed Sep. 29, 2005, under theappropriate legal basis including, without limitation, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e). Said application Ser. Nos. 12/249,884 and 13/018,307 also claimpriority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/979,768, filed Oct.12, 2007, under the appropriate legal basis including, withoutlimitation, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e). Each of the above-listedapplications and/or patents is hereby incorporated by reference as iffully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field

This disclosure relates to the field of exercise equipment utilizingdeflectable resilient members.

Description of the Related Art

Without limitations, in general, the exercise apparatus or device ofthis disclosure relates to the use of deflectable resilient members forexercising the muscles of one's body.

SUMMARY OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

The exercise apparatus of the present invention is not limited to thefollowing description. The following is meant merely as a brief summaryof the general features of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention. A more complete written description is listed below. Theexercise apparatus of the present invention comprises a base member thatcan be free standing or mounted to any horizontal, vertical, or angledsurface. Resilient members, such as rods of plastic, can be removably orpermanently mounted in a cantilevered fashion to the base member at anyof a wide range of locations or angular orientations, so that one end ofthe resilient member is fixed to the base member and the other end ofthe resilient member is unrestrained. The user can perform a wide rangeof strength and physical therapy exercises for many if not all of thevarious muscle groups of the body by grasping the somewhat stiffresilient members in his or her hands and exerting a force on theunrestrained portion of the resilient member in any direction that isgenerally transverse to the longitudinal centerline of the resilientmember, causing the resilient member to bend in flexure. The resilientmembers are preferably designed to enable multi-directional resistanceand can be used independently or simultaneously, permitting the user toexercise multiple different muscles simultaneously. The apparatus ispreferably designed so that it can support the user in a free standing,kneeling, or sitting position, or any other position that will maximizecore strength training in a manner not generally feasible withconventional devices comprising flat benches, walls, or other similarstabilizing structures. Further, the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention can be readily configured for home use with little instructionto enable the user to exercise and strengthen virtually every musclegroup and/or joint of the body and at any widely variable level ofresistance by changing the orientation, location, and/or stiffness ofthe resilient members.

Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparentfrom the following detailed description taken in connection with theaccompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that thedrawings are designed for the purpose of illustration only and are notintended as a definition of the limits of the invention.

Certain embodiments described herein are directed to exercise devicesand resilient members for exercising the muscles of one's body. However,it will be appreciated that the exercise devices and resilient membersmay have application to other fields. In some embodiments, a resilientmember for fitness related exercise can be provided that can compriseone or more stiffening members (which can be axially resilient oraxially rigid but bendable), a first member, and a second member. Asused in this document, any reference to “some embodiments” or to anyembodiment or component disclosed “herein” is meant to refer to anyembodiments or components set forth explicitly or implicitly herein,and/or any embodiments or components incorporated by reference herein.In some embodiments, the first member can be positioned at a firstportion of the resilient member and configured to be supported by a basemember, the first member further being configured to support a firstportion of the one or more stiffening members such that the one or morestiffening members extend therefrom in a cantilevered disposition.Further, in some embodiments, the second member can be spaced apart fromthe first member and configured to interact with a second portion of theone or more stiffening members such that, when a user exerts a force onthe second member, at least the second portion of each of the one ormore stiffening members deflects and a resistance can be provided.

In some embodiments, a resilient member for fitness related exercise canbe provided that can comprise a first member configured to be supportedby a base member and comprising a plurality of axial openings, a secondmember spaced apart from the first member and comprising a plurality ofaxial openings, and one or more stiffening members, wherein the firstportion of the one or more stiffening members can be positioned in oneor more of the plurality of axial openings in the first member such thatthe one or more stiffening members extend therefrom in a cantilevereddisposition. Further, in some embodiments, the second portion of the oneor more stiffening members can be positioned in one or more of theplurality of axial openings in the second member such that, when a userexerts a force on the second member, at least the second portion of eachof the one or more stiffening members deflects and a resistance forcecan be provided.

In some embodiments, a resilient member for fitness related exercise isprovided comprising a stiffening member defining a first portion and asecond portion, a first member configured to be secured to a basemember, comprising a first axial opening positioned near the axialcenter of the first member and plurality of additional axial openingsbeing spaced apart from the first axial opening of the first member, asecond member comprising a first axial opening positioned near the axialcenter of the second member and plurality of additional axial openingsbeing spaced apart from the first axial opening of the second member,wherein the first portion of the stiffening member can be supported bythe first axial opening of the first member so as to extend therefrom ina cantilevered disposition, the second portion of the stiffening membercan be positioned in the first axial opening of the second member suchthat, when a user exerts a force on the second member, at least thesecond portion of the stiffening member deflects and a resistance forcecan be provided.

In some embodiments, a resilient member for fitness related exercise canbe provided comprising a first stiffening member comprising a firstportion and a second portion, a first member positioned at a firstportion of the resilient member and configured to be supported by a basemember, and a second member, wherein the first member can be furtherconfigured to support at least the first portion of the first stiffeningmember such that the first stiffening member extends therefrom in acantilevered disposition, the second member can be configured tointeract with the second portion of the first stiffening member suchthat, when a user exerts a force on the second member, at least a secondportion of the first resilient member deflects and a resistance forcecan be provided.

In some embodiments, a resilient member for fitness related exercise isprovided comprising one or more stiffening members, each having a firstend portion and a second end portion, a first member positioned at afirst portion of the resilient member and configured to be secured to abase member and to support the one or more stiffening members, and asecond member configured to support the second end portion of each theone or more stiffening members such that, when a lateral force can beexerted on the second member, the second end portion of each of the oneor more stiffening members deflects.

In some embodiments, a method of exercising the muscles of one's body isprovided, comprising providing a resilient member, supporting theresilient member in a cantilevered disposition so that the first portionof the resilient member can be substantially prevented from pivotingrelative to the exercise device base member, exerting a force on theresilient member so as to deflect at least a portion of the resilientmember and effect an exercising of one or more muscles in the user'sbody, and varying the resistance force provided by the resilient memberby adding or removing at least one additional stiffening member to theresilient member, wherein each of the at least one additional stiffeningmembers supported by the resilient member can be supported by theresilient member such that at least a first portion of the at least oneadditional stiffening member extends from the first member in acantilevered disposition. In some embodiments, the resilient member cancomprise at least one stiffening member, a first member positioned at afirst portion of the resilient member and configured to be supported bya base member in a cantilevered disposition so that the first portion ofthe resilient member can be substantially prevented from pivotingrelative to the exercise device base member, the first member furtherconfigured to support a first portion of the at least one stiffeningmember such that the at least one stiffening member extend therefrom ina cantilevered disposition, and a second member configured to at leastradially support at least a second portion of the at least onestiffening member such that, when a user exerts a force on the secondmember, at least the second portion of each of the at least onestiffening member deflects from the longitudinal axis of the relaxedposition of each of the at least one stiffening member and a resistanceis provided. In some embodiments, the resilient member can comprise atleast one stiffening member that can be at least axially supported bythe first and second members.

In some embodiments, a device for exercising the muscles in one's bodyis provided that can comprise a base and a resilient member, wherein thebase can be configured to provide one or more removable supports for anend portion of the resilient member such that the resilient memberextends therefrom in a cantilevered disposition, and the resilientmember comprises one or more stiffening members that can be, but are notrequired to be axially rigid (as with any embodiments described herein),a first member positioned at a first portion of the resilient member andconfigured to be supported by the base member and to provide a supportfor the one or more stiffening members such that the one or morestiffening members extend therefrom in a cantilevered disposition, and asecond member supported by at least one of the one or more stiffeningmembers and configured such that, when a user exerts a force on thesecond member, at least a portion of each of the one or more stiffeningmembers deflects and a resistance force can be provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure willnow be described in connection with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure, in reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustratedembodiments, however, are merely examples and are not intended to limitthe present disclosure. The following are brief descriptions of thedrawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 1a is an aerial view of the embodiment of the exercise apparatus ofthe present invention illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 1b is a sectional view of the embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1 a taken along line1 b-1 b in FIG. 1 a.

FIGS. 2 through 10 illustrate various applications of the exerciseapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 12a is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise apparatus ofthe present invention illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention illustrated in FIG. 13 along line 14-14.

FIG. 15 is an aerial view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatus ofthe present invention.

FIG. 15a is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise apparatus ofthe present invention illustrated in FIG. 15.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the exerciseapparatus of the present invention

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the exercise apparatusof the present invention.

FIG. 21a is a back view of the embodiment of the exercise apparatus ofthe present invention illustrated in FIG. 21 taken along line 21 a-21 ain FIG. 21.

FIGS. 22a, 22b, and 22c are sectional views of an embodiment of theresilient member of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the embodiment of the resilient member ofthe present invention taken along line 23-23 in FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 24a is a sectional view of an embodiment of the resilient memberand an embodiment of the connection interface of the present invention.

FIG. 24b is a sectional view of an embodiment of the resilient memberand an embodiment of the connection interface of the present invention.

FIG. 24c is a sectional view of an embodiment of the resilient memberand an embodiment of the connection interface of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise device.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise device shown inFIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise deviceincluding a plurality of an embodiment of a resilient member positionedin a variety of locations and angular orientations.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 29 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the embodimentof the exercise device shown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the embodiment of one of the resilientmembers shown in FIG. 28, taken through the longitudinal center of theresilient member.

FIG. 31 is an enlarged sectional view of the embodiment of one of theresilient members shown in FIG. 28, taken through the longitudinalcenter of the resilient member.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the embodiment of an exercise deviceshown in FIG. 32, showing one resilient member supported by the basemember and another resilient member spaced apart from the base member.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the embodiment of an exercise deviceshown in FIG. 32, wherein the embodiment of the resilient member shownin FIG. 32 is shown in a section view and in a different orientationrelative to the base member as compared to the embodiment of theresilient member shown in FIG. 32.

FIG. 35 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a portion of the embodiment of theresilient member shown in FIG. 32.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the resilient membershown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a portion of the embodiment of theresilient member shown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 41 is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise device shown inFIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 43 is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise device shown inFIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 45 is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise device shown inFIG. 44.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice.

FIG. 47 is a side view of the embodiment of the exercise device shown inFIG. 46.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the top portion of another embodimentof an exercise device.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the bottom portion of the embodiment ofan exercise device shown in FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice, showing the exercise device in an operational position.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the exercise deviceshown in FIG. 50, showing the exercise device in a partially collapsedor folded position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

An exercise apparatus of the present invention comprising one or moreresilient members for exercising is described herein. In the followingdescription, numerous specific details are set forth by way of exemplaryembodiments in order to provide a more thorough description of thepresent invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in theart that the present invention may be practiced without these specificdetails. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words andphrases in the specification and claims be given the ordinary andaccustomed meaning as understood by those of ordinary skill in theapplicable art or arts. If any other meaning is intended, that specialmeaning will be disclosed herein. Furthermore, the scope of the presentinvention is not limited by the specific details of the embodimentsdescribed below. As an example, the number, location, and orientation ofthe connection interfaces 56 of each of the embodiment of the exerciseapparatus of the present invention are not limited to the number,location, and orientation of the connection interfaces 56 illustratedherein.

Referring now in detail to the drawings, the embodiment of the exerciseapparatus of the present invention illustrated in each of the FIGS. 1, 1a, and 1 b comprises a base 30 and a pair of resilient members 62. Thebase 30 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 1 a, and 1 b is free standing,horizontally oriented, and is resting on ground surface X. Otherembodiments of the base can be oriented horizontally, vertically, or atany other angle, and can either free standing or can be fixed to asupporting surface. The base 30 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 1 a, and 1 b ispreferably designed to support the user of the exercise apparatus in astanding, kneeling, sitting or other position and carries one end of theresilient members 62. The base 30 can be formed in a wide variety ofconfigurations. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1, 1 a, and 1 b,base 30 also comprises protruding base portion 36, back surface 42,front surface 44, left surface 46, right surface 48, primary surface 50,a plurality of left side connection interfaces 56′ located betweencenterline 38 and left surface 46, and a plurality of right sideconnection interfaces 56″ located between centerline 38 and rightsurface 48. The embodiment of each connection interface of the presentinvention is preferably configured to provide a removable securement foran end portion of a resilient member such that the resilient memberextends therefrom in a cantilevered disposition and can be formed of achannel either partially or fully protruding through the base. Theconnection interfaces 56 illustrated in FIG. 1 preferably define aninner surface having substantially the same geometrical configuration asthe outer surface of the portion of the resilient member 62 (i.e.,either the fixed end of the resilient member 62′ or the insert 64) thatis in communication with the connection interface 56. The left and rightside connection interfaces 56′ and 56″ are preferably positioned on thebase 30 at a wide-ranging variety of locations and angular orientationsrelative to the base. In the embodiments of the exercise apparatusillustrated in FIGS. 1-10, left side connection interfaces 56′ arelocated and oriented symmetrically with respect to right side connectioninterfaces 56″ about centerline 38 so that the user can simultaneouslyperform identical exercise motions on the left and right side of theusers body, as illustrated in FIG. 2. However, the exercise apparatus ofthe present invention is not so limited. The exercise apparatus of thepresent invention permits a widely variable number of locations andorientations of the connection interfaces 56 relative to the user beyondthose illustrated in FIG. 1 or any other figure herein, and while thesymmetry of the left side connection interfaces 56′ with respect to theright side connection interfaces 56″ is preferable, it is not required.

Resilient members 62 are preferably formed from a rod of resilientplastic and can be removably or permanently attached to any connectioninterface 56 such as any of the left side connection interfaces 56′, theright side connection interfaces 56″ illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, and/orin any other connection interface 56 illustrated in any of theembodiments described herein or within the scope of the presentinvention. For many exercises, the user would prefer only one or tworesilient members 62 to be simultaneously attached to the connectioninterfaces 56. The connection interfaces 56 effectively restrain one endof the resilient member 62 in a cantilevered fashion so that the usercan perform exercises by grasping the unrestrained portion of theresilient members 62 in his or her hands and exerting a generallytransverse force on the unrestrained portion of the resilient member,causing the resilient member to bend in flexure. The stiffness of theresilient member provides the resistance needed for performing thedesired exercises. The resilient members preferably permitmulti-directional resistance and can preferably be used independently orsimultaneously, permitting the user to perform multiple differentexercises simultaneously.

The protruding base portion 36 preferably comprises additionalconnection interfaces 56 at a wide range of locations and angularorientations relative to the user. The protruding base portion 36 can beformed in a wide variety of configurations and can be bolted, screwed,hinged, welded, glued, or otherwise permanently or removably fastened tothe base using any suitable or similar means of attachment. When thebase is generally horizontally oriented, such as when resting on aground surface, the base 30 can preferably support the weight of theuser of the device positioned in a two leg stance, one leg stance,kneeling, sitting, or in any similar or desired exercise position on theprimary surface 50. Further, a wobble board 112 of the kind found in theprior art, as illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, or a balance platform, orany other similar rehabilitation, exercise, or balance training devices,can also be used with the present invention to increase the difficultyand, hence, the benefit of using the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention. The base 30 and protruding base portion 36 can bemanufactured from any generally stiff material, including wood, plastic,fiber reinforced plastic, metal, or any composite thereof. In theembodiments disclosed herein, the perimeter of the base 30 can be anygeometry such as a square, rectangle, circle, oval, or any other desiredshape. The embodiments of the base 30 designed for horizontalorientation preferably have a width of approximately twenty-four inchesto approximately thirty-six inches and a length of approximatelyforty-eight inches. The embodiments of the base 30 designed for verticalorientation, as illustrated in FIG. 12, preferably have a width ofapproximately three inches to approximately thirty-six inches and aheight preferably in the range of approximately twelve inches toapproximately seventy-two inches. However, the dimensions of the base 30are not so confined. The base can formed in a wide variety ofconfigurations and dimensions beyond those illustrated and describedherein. Additionally, stiffening members, “I” beams, or other structuralmembers manufactured from any generally stiff material, includingplastic, fiber reinforced or otherwise, metal, or any composite thereof,can be attached to base 30 to increase the rigidity of the base. Suchstiffener panels, “I” beams, or other structural members would bepreferably attached to the bottom surface 52 of the base 30. The base 30can comprise base pads 76 attached to the base using bolts 54, which canserve multiple functions. First, the length of the base pads 76 can beadjusted so as to level the base on uneven surfaces. Additionally, asillustrated most clearly in FIGS. 1b and 12a , base pads 76 providespace between the bottom base surface 52 and the ground X or wall W sothat the resilient members 62 can be fully engaged in the connectioninterfaces 56 without interference with the ground surface or wall.

The operation of the present invention will be described with referenceto FIGS. 2-10 and examples of different exercises that can be performedusing the exercise apparatus of the present invention. Each of theseexercises has a primary benefit to particular muscle groups of theuser's body, which are identified in the descriptions below. Thefollowing descriptions are not, however, exhaustive of the capabilitiesof the exercise apparatus of the present invention but merely disclosesome of these capabilities so that the reader better understands somemodes of operation of the exercise apparatus of the present invention.FIGS. 2-10 contain schematic illustrations of the user's upper forearmsand upper arms (each represented by ovals), hands (represented bycircles), lower and upper legs (represented by ovals), or feet(represented by rectangles), as well as other parts of the bodynecessary for understanding. Solid lines are used to represent theinitial position of the user's body parts and resilient members 62.Dashed lines are used to represent the positions of the body parts andresilient members 62′ and 62″ after force has been applied to theresilient members 62 for the particular exercise described. Awide-ranging variety of exercises can be performed on the exerciseapparatus of the present invention by varying the location, orientation,and posture of the user relative to the base 30, by varying the locationand orientation of the resilient members 62 relative to the user, byvarying the level of resistance of the resilient members 62, or by usingdifferent handles as illustrated in FIG. 19.

FIG. 2 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for exercising mostly the chest, shoulders, and arms. In FIG.2, the user stands upright on primary surface 50 at the lateral centerof the base 30 facing two resilient members 62 that are attached toconnection interfaces 56 b′ and 56 b″ spaced approximately the user'sshoulder width apart. For this exercise, the user stands close to andgrips the resilient members 62 with bent arms, and simultaneously pusheseach of the resilient members 62 away from the user's body to resilientmember positions 62′ and 62″, and then returns the resilient members 62to their initial position. This exercise is known as the chest press.Other exercises can be performed by inserting resilient members 62 intoconnection interface 56 a′, 56 b′, 56 c′, or 56 d′, and 56 a″, 56 b″, 56c″, or 56 d″, each of which has a different angular orientation. Asdiscussed, each connection interface is designed to restrain one end ofthe resilient member 62. Thus, varying the angular orientation of theconnection interfaces 56 varies the angular orientation of the resilientmembers relative to the user such that the user can perform differentexercises by attaching the resilient member to a different connectioninterface.

FIG. 3 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for exercising mostly the upper and mid back, shoulders, andarms. In FIG. 3, the user stands upright on primary surface 50 at thelateral center of the base 30 at approximately an arm's length distancefrom the two vertically oriented resilient members 62 again insertedinto connection interfaces 56 b′ and 56 b″. Grasping the resilientmembers 62 directly with his or her hands, the user simultaneously pullsthe resilient members 62 toward the user's body to resilient memberpositions 62′ and 62″, and then returns the resilient members 62 totheir initial position.

The exercise illustrated in FIG. 4 is a combination of the exercisesperformed in FIGS. 2 and 3. For this exercise, the user stands uprighton primary surface 50 at the lateral center of the base 30 with armsslightly bent in front of the user's body, grasping the resilientmembers 62 again inserted into connection interfaces 56 b′ and 56 b″ Theuser first pushes the resilient member 62 located in connectioninterface 56 b″, bending the resilient member 62 to position 62″. Thismostly exercises the right side of the user's chest, shoulders, andarms. The user simultaneously pulls the resilient member 62 located inconnection interface 56 b′, bending the resilient member 62 to position62′. This mostly exercises the left side of the user's upper and midback, shoulders, and arms. The user then returns both resilient members62 to the original position and then alternates the forces applied toeach resilient member 62 such that the user applies a pulling force tothe resilient member 62 located in connection interface 56 b″ and apushing force to the resilient member 62 located in connection interface56 b′ and then, again, returning both resilient members 62 to theirinitial position. By alternating, the user is able to simultaneouslyexercise back, shoulder, arm, and chest muscles.

FIG. 5 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for upper body conditioning exercise mostly for the chest,anterior shoulder, and arms. For this exercise, the user stands onprimary surface 50 in an upright position at the lateral center of thebase 30 facing two resilient members 62 that are inserted intoconnection interfaces 56 i′ and 56 i″, which are spaced laterallynarrower that the user's shoulder width and angled back toward butlaterally away from the user's body. For this exercise, the user extendshis or her arms laterally so that his or her hands are approximatelyshoulder height with arms slightly bent, grasps the resilient members 62directly with his or her hands, simultaneously pushes the resilientmembers 62 forward toward resilient member positions 62′ and 62″, andthen returns the resilient members 62 to the initial position. The usercan alter the motion of this exercise by inserting resilient members 62into any of the other connection interfaces 56 i′, 56 j′, or 56 k′, and56 i″, 56 j″, or 56 k″, each of which hosts a different angularorientation relative to the user.

FIG. 6 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for upper body conditioning exercise mostly for the upper andmid back, shoulders, and arms. For this exercise, the resilient members62 are inserted in connection interfaces 56 h′ and 56 h″, which are bothoriented such that the tops of each of the resilient members 62 areangled toward the base centerline 38. The user begins the exercise witheach of his or her hands in a closer proximity to one another and pullseach of the resilient members 62 at a slightly outward angle relative tobase centerline 38, forcing the resilient members 62 to bend toresilient member positions 62′ and 62″, and then returns the resilientmembers 62 to their initial position.

FIG. 7 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for upper body conditioning exercise mostly for the upperback, shoulders, and arms. The user stands on primary surface 50 in anupright position at the lateral center of the base 30 with armsextending in front of the user's body but slightly bent, elbows in linewith the user's shoulder and hand, facing resilient members 62 insertedin connection interfaces 56 h′ and 56 h″. Grasping the resilient members62, the user simultaneously pulls each of the resilient members 62 awayfrom base centerline 38 and away from back surface 42 in a controlledmovement to resilient member positions 62′ and 62″, and then returns theresilient members 62 to their initial position.

FIG. 8 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for upper body conditioning mostly for the upper shoulders andarms. For this exercise, the user stands on primary surface 50 at thelateral center of the base 30 with knees slightly bent and waistslightly bent so that his or her upper body is angled forward, grippingresilient members 62, inserted in connection interfaces 56 l, just abovethe user's shoulders. The user simultaneously pushes each of theresilient members 62 up and away from the user's shoulders to resilientmember position 62′ and then returns the resilient members to theinitial position.

FIG. 9 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention for upper body conditioning exercise mostly for the upper andlower legs, upper cervical musculature, upper trapezius shoulders, andlower back. This exercise is known as a squat shrug. For this exercise,the user stands on primary surface 50 at the lateral center of the base30 facing protruding base portion 36, with knees bent, upper body mostlyupright, and with arms straight down at the user's sides, gripping bothresilient members 62 just below the user's knees. Using mainly leg andtrapezius muscles, the user thrusts upward straightening his or herknees to a standing position while simultaneously shrugging his or hershoulders upward to resilient member positions 62′ and then returns theresilient members 62 to their initial position.

FIG. 10 illustrates the use of the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention mainly for exercising the user's arms. For this exercise, theuser kneels on primary surface 50 with back and knees bent facing awayfrom protruding base portion 36, with arms by his or her side and bentat the elbows, gripping resilient members 62 inserted in connectioninterfaces 56 o′ and 56 o″. The user either simultaneously orindependently pushes each of the resilient members 62 down towardprimary surface 50 to resilient member positions 62′ using mainly onlyhis or her arms, and then returns the resilient members 62 to theirinitial position.

The embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the present inventionillustrated in FIG. 11 comprises base 30 a, which is generallyhorizontally oriented and has a non-flat bottom surface 52 a, andresilient members 62 inserted in connection interfaces 56. Base 30 a iswide enough for the user to stand with his or her feet approximately ashoulder distance apart and comprises a plurality of connectioninterfaces 56 at a wide ranging variety of locations and angularorientations. Portions of the base 30 a can be made from a material suchas metal, plastic, or any other sufficiently rigid material, while otherportions such the bottom surface 52 a can optionally be made from apliable material such as rubber or a soft plastic. Having a non-flatbottom surface increases the difficulty and, hence, improves theconditioning benefit to the user by requiring the user to maintain hisor her balance while exercising.

The embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the present inventionillustrated in FIGS. 12 and 12 a comprise a two layer base defining anupper base portion 30 b′ and lower base portion 30 b″ spaced apart bybase member spacers 58 and affixed together using base bolt 54, and aplurality of connection interfaces 56 at a wide range of locations andangular orientations. Base 30 is generally vertically oriented andattached to a vertical wall surface W using bolts 54, but can beattached to the wall surface, or any other surface, using bolts, screws,adhesive, welds, or any other similar or suitable attachment means. Basepads 76 preferably provide enough space between the bottom surface 52and the vertical wall surface W to enable the resilient members 62 tofully engage in the connection interfaces to prevent their inadvertentremoval without interference with the wall surface. For this embodiment,the user performs many of his or her desired exercises while standing onthe ground, either facing toward or away from primary surface 50. Basepads 76 are preferably attached to bottom surface 52 of this or anyother base illustrated or described herein using screws, bolts,adhesive, welds, or any other suitable attachment means to enable theuser to level the base and to provide a space between the base bottomsurface 52 and the supporting surface.

The embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the present inventionillustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 comprises base 30 c, which is generallyhorizontally oriented, and resilient members 62 a inserted in threadedconnection interfaces 56 b′ and 56 b″. The base 30 c of the embodimentof the exercise apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 is made fromtwo base member portions 30 c′ and 30 c″ formed from a wide rangingarray of materials such as plastic, metal, wood, fiberglass, or anyother similar or suitable material. The base member portions 30 c′ and30 c″ are oriented generally parallel to one another and fixed togetherusing base member spacers 58 and base bolts 54. Base 30 c furthercomprises a plurality of base depressions 78, twelve being shown, eachdesigned for receiving and limiting the lateral movement of a wobbleboard 112 or other similar device to increase the difficulty ofexercises performed by making the user's stance unstable. The number,geometric configuration, and location of each of the base depressions 78is widely variable. In the embodiment of the exercise apparatus of thepresent invention illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, each of the left sideconnection interfaces 56′ have a different location and angularorientation, and are each symmetrical with the right side connectioninterfaces 56″ about centerline 38.

In addition to being comprised only of a single resilient member, theresilient member of each of the embodiments disclosed in this patent canbe comprised of multiple components, as is the resilient member 62′shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. The resilient members 62 a shown in FIGS. 13and 14 are each comprised of a resilient member 62 a′ that has alongitudinal bore 66 extending longitudinally therethrough, a threadedinsert 64 which is attached to one end of the resilient member andinserted into the connection interface, a stiffener member 68 insertedinto the longitudinal bore 66, and cap 72 that is attached to theunrestrained end of the resilient member to seal the longitudinal bore66. Again, the resilient members 62 a shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 are analternate embodiment of the other embodiments of the resilient members62 illustrated or described herein and can be used interchangeably withany of the resilient members, base embodiments, and connection interfaceembodiments disclosed herein. For the resilient members 62 a shown inFIGS. 13 and 14, the stiffener member 68 is formed of a resilient rodthat can be inserted into the longitudinal bores 66 to increase theresistance provided by the resilient member 62 a and can be of anycross-section, round or otherwise, or can be in the form of a helicalspring or similar configuration. The cap 72 is preferably fixed to thefree end of the resilient member to seal the longitudinal bore 66 andalso to serve as an interface with any handle or other similarattachment that the user desires to attach to the resilient members 62a. The cap 72 preferably defines a hole 74 which enables a handle to bebolted to the cap 72. Cap surface 73 and the portion of the inner boresurface 67 at the unrestrained end of the resilient member preferablycomprise threads, pins, channels, protrusions, or other suitable lockingfeatures to prevent the inadvertent removal of the cap 72.

In the embodiment of the resilient member 62 a illustrated in FIGS. 13and 14, each insert 64 and each connection interface 56 are preferablythreaded or comprise other suitable locking features so that, when theinserts 64 are inserted into the connection interfaces, the inserts 64and, hence, the resilient members 62 a, will not become inadvertentlydisengaged during use. Each insert 64 also serves another function—toprovide a common interface with the connection interfaces. A resilientmember with a non-circular cross-section could not be securely insertedinto a cylindrical connection interface. An insert 64 with a circularcross-sectional portion can be affixed to the end of the non-circularresilient member so that the resilient member can be inserted into thecylindrical connection interface. Furthermore, an effective way to varythe resistance of the exercise is to vary the cross-sectional thicknessof the resilient member 64. Attaching an insert 64 with a portion thatmatches the geometry of the connection interfaces 56 to the end of eachsuch varying resilient member would overcome the mismatch that wouldotherwise prevent the resilient members of varying cross-sectionalconfigurations that do not match the configuration of the connectioninterfaces from inserting into the connection interfaces. Thus, eachinsert 64 provides an interface between the resilient member and theconnection interfaces so that resilient members of varying diameter orcross-sectional geometry can be inserted in the same connectioninterface.

The embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 15 acomprises base 30 d, which is generally horizontally oriented, and tworesilient members 62 b, each of which is comprised of resilient member62 b′ and insert 64. Base 30 d is defined by upper base portion 30 d′and lower base portion 30 d″ attached together using bolts 54 andspacers 58. Base 30 d defines a handle 84 to facilitate the transport ofthe base. Connection interfaces 56 are preferably formed in the upperbase portion 30 d′ only and base spacers 58 provide space between theupper base portion 30 d′ and lower base portion 30 d″ to ensure that theresilient members can be sufficiently engaged in the connectioninterfaces without interference with the lower base portion 30 d″. Upperbase portion 30 d′ is thick enough in cross-section to enable theresilient members 62′ to engage in the connection interfaces 56 to adepth sufficient to secure the resilient members and to prevent theirinadvertent removal.

The embodiment of the base 30 e of the present invention illustrated inFIG. 16 is generally horizontally oriented and comprises main baseportion 30 e′, several horizontally oriented tubular base portions 30e″, two protruding base portions 36 (each of which defines connectioninterfaces 56 at different locations and orientations relative to theuser and can be attached using bolts, welds, or other similar attachmentmeans), and two base pads 76 attached to the base 30 using base bolts54. The exercise apparatus of the present invention illustrated in FIG.16 comprises four resilient members 62 simultaneously inserted into fourconnection interfaces 56. The two resilient members 62 illustrated inphantom lines are shown merely to illustrate the orientation of theconnection interfaces 56 j′ and 56 j″ only. It is not required or evenbeneficial that more than one or two resilient members aresimultaneously inserted into the connection interfaces. As mentioned,the base 30 e is comprised of multiple tubular members preferably formedfrom tubing with a hollow, rectangular cross-section and one large, flatplate member, fixed together using bolts, screws, brackets, welds,adhesive, notches, protrusions, or by any other suitable fasteningmeans. The left side connection interfaces 56 a′-56 k′ and the rightside connection interfaces 56 a″-56 k″ are symmetrical about a planenormal to the primary surface 50 and intersecting centerline 38.

The embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 17 comprisesbase 30 f, two resilient members 62, two adjustable base members 40,rotation pins 92 attached to base 30 f through a hole in each of theadjustable base members and about which adjustable base members 40rotate, multiple insert pin openings 86 cut into the base 30 preferablyin a radial arrangement about the rotation pin 92, and two insert pins88 that lock each of the adjustable base members 40 in the desiredangular orientation by engaging in the desired insert pin openings 86.Insert pins 88 and insert pin openings 86 can be threaded or defineother features to prevent the inadvertent removal of the insert pins 88.Each of the adjustable base members 40 define multiple connectioninterfaces 56 at different locations and angular orientations forreceiving the resilient member 62. By altering the angular orientationof each of the adjustable base members 40 and/or inserting the resilientmember 62 into a different connection interface 56, the exerciseapparatus of the present invention can be configured to permit the userto perform a wide range of exercises. Base 30 f further defines basenotches 80 cut into the perimeter of the base into which resistancebands and other similar devices can be secured to permit the user toperform additional exercises when standing, kneeling, or sitting on thebase.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17, the embodiment of thepresent invention illustrated in FIG. 18 also permits the user to adjustthe location and angular orientation of the resilient members 62 byvarying the angular orientation of the adjustable base members 40 aand/or inserting the resilient members 62 into one of a plurality ofconnection interfaces 56 on each adjustable base members 40 a, sevenbeing shown. Each connection interface 56 is arranged at a differentlocation and angular orientation on the adjustable base member 40 a.Base 30 g defines upper base portion 30 g′ and lower base portion 30 g″which are preferably separated from one another using multiple basemember spacers 58 which are attached to the base 30 g using bolts,welds, adhesive, or any other suitable connection means. The upper baseportion 30 g′ has two cutouts 94 into which each adjustable base member40 a is removably inserted. The two adjustable base members 40 a aresecured in the desired angular orientation by inserting the insert pin88, which is located at the center point of each of the adjustable basemembers 40 a and passes through the adjustable base members 40 a, into ahole located in the base 30 and aligned with insert pin 88.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18, both the insert pin 88 and thebase hole into which the insert pin 88 is inserted preferably compriselocking features, such as threads, pins, protrusions, channels, or othersuitable features so that, when the insert pin 88 is engaged in the basehole, the adjustable base members 40 a are firmly secured to the base 30g. The insert pin 88, the base hole, and the cutouts 94 in the base 30 gprevent the adjustable base members 40 a from rotating, translating, orotherwise moving from the desired location. The user adjusts the angularorientation of the adjustable base members 40 a by removing the insertpin 88, lifting the adjustable base member 40 a out of the cutout 94,changing the angular orientation of the adjustable base members 40 a,and then reinserting adjustable base member 40 a into the cutout 94, andinserting the insert pin 88 into the base hole. Each cutout 94 isdefined by a geometry approximately matching, but slightly oversized ascompared to, the geometry of the side surfaces of each of the adjustablebase members 40 a such that each of the adjustable base members 40 a canbe removably but snuggly inserted partially or fully into each of thetwo cutouts 94. Base 30 g further defines two base wheels 82 tofacilitate transport of the base.

The embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 19 permitsthe user to adjust the location and angular orientation of the resilientmembers 62 c by varying the angular orientation of the adjustable basemembers 40 b with respect to the mount assembly 98. The base 30 h can beoriented at any angle, horizontal, vertical, or otherwise. Each of thetwo adjustable base members 40 b independently rotate about mountassembly axle 106 so that the angular orientation of the adjustable basemembers 40 b and, consequently, the resilient members 62 c, can beadjusted by the user of this device. Each of the adjustable base members40 b is locked by the user in the desired angular orientation byinserting the mount assembly adjustment pin 104, which is mounted to andcan translate through the mount assembly pin bracket 108 into any one ofthe holes of the mount assembly radial hole bracket 102. Mount assemblypin bracket 108 is fixed to the base 30 h by bolting, screwing, welding,or by suitable features or methods. Mount assembly radial hole bracket102 is fixed to the mount assembly axle 106 so that it rotates alongwith the adjustable base member 40 b. A “W” shaped handle assembly 114is preferably attached to the caps 72 of the resilient members 62 cusing a hand bolt, screw, or other suitable attachment means. Attachinga “W” shaped handle or any other handle to the resilient members permitsthe user to perform a wider variety of exercises by providing differentpositions where the user can grip the exercise apparatus of the presentinvention. Other handles, such as rope handles, individual handles, orstraight handles, can be similarly attached to the resilient members toenable a variety of additional gripping points for the user.

Further adjustability of the angular orientation of the mount assembly98 with respect to the base can be achieved by mounting the mountassembly 98 to a freely rotatable but lockable plate. The rotating platewould be locked into the desired angular orientation by inserting aninsert pin or other suitable locking mechanism through the rotatableplate into an insert pin opening in the base. Alternatively, therotatable plate could comprise a foot pedal attached to the insert pinso that, by pressing the pedal, the insert pin can be disengaged fromthe aforementioned array of insert holes in base and permit the freerotation of the rotatable plate. By releasing the pedal when therotatable plate is in the desired orientation, the pin or other suitablecomponent will be engaged in the array of insert holes in base.

The embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 20, 21 a,and 21 b also permits the user to adjust the location and angularorientation of the resilient members 62 d by varying the angularorientation of the adjustable base members 40 c and/or inserting theresilient members 62 d into one of the nine connection interfaces 56 oneach adjustable base members 40 c. Each connection interface 56 ispreferably arranged at a different location and angular orientation onthe adjustable base member 40 c. Multiple upper base portions 30 i′having a generally rectangular cross-section are fixed to the lower baseportion 30 i″ by threaded insert pins 88′. The user adjusts the angularorientation of the adjustable base members 40 c by loosening and slidingthe threaded insert pins 88, and hence the adjustable base member 40 c,to a different position in slots 96 and then tightening the threadedinsert pins 88. To secure each adjustable base member 40 c in itsdesired position, each of the threaded insert pins 88 pass through ahole 89 in the adjustable base member 40 c, through slot 96, and engagein the nut 91 that is slidably positioned within the larger slot 96′formed on the bottom sides of the upper base portions 30 i′. The base 30i further comprises base notches 80 and base depressions 78, both ofwhich can be incorporated into any embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 21 illustrates the identical embodiment of the present inventionillustrated in FIG. 20, except that upper base portions 30 i′ are fixedin a generally vertical orientation to the base 30 i using threadedinsert pins 88′, permitting the user to further vary the location andorientation of each resilient member 62 d.

FIGS. 22a, 22b, and 22c are longitudinal cross-sectional views, and FIG.23 is transverse cross-sectional view, of an embodiment of a resilientmember 62 e comprising multiple stiffener members 68 which, wheninserted by the user into the longitudinal bores 66 of resilient member62 e′, increase the stiffness and resistance of the resilient member 62e. Resilient member 62 e′ can comprise multiple longitudinal bores 66(as shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23), or merelyone longitudinal bore 66 into which one or more stiffener members 68 canbe inserted. Thus, resilient member 62 e′ can be solid in cross-sectionor hollow with any number of longitudinally oriented longitudinal bores66 therein, as described above. The stiffener members 68 can be any of avariety of diameters, geometries, and stiffnesses, so long as they fitinside longitudinal bores 66. Additionally, sleeve 70 having atoroidally shaped cross-section can be inserted by the user over theouter surface of the resilient member 62 e′ to achieve greater stiffnessand, hence, resistance of the resilient member 62 e. The resilientmember 62 e depicted in the embodiment of the present inventionillustrated in FIGS. 22-23 can be interchanged with any of theaforedescribed resilient member described herein.

Referring to FIGS. 22a and 22b , the cap 72 is affixed onto theunrestrained end of the resilient member 62 e′ to seal the longitudinalbore or bores 66 and encapsulate stiffener members 68. Cap 72 preferablyprovides an interface with the resilient member 62 e′ to which the “W”shaped handle 114, rope handle, individual handle, or any other handleor attachments that the user desires can be attached by using a handbolt, screw, or other suitable attachment means. Cap 72 and resilientmember 62 e′ preferably define threads, pins, protrusions, or othersuitable locking features to firmly secure the cap 72 to the resilientmember 62 e′.

Resilient member 62′, stiffener member 68, and sleeve 70 can bemanufactured from any resilient material, e.g., a polymer, elastomer, apliable metallic alloy, plastic-fiberglass or other fiber composite, orany other suitable material that will elastically bend without permanentdeformation when force as applied by the user, such as any one or moreof the following: nylon, delrin, polyvinyl chloride, rubber, elastomericmaterials, aluminum, steel, spring steel, carbon, or glass elastomers,or any other suitable materials that can form a flexible yet stiffresilient member. The resilient member can be of any cross-sectionalgeometry and can be straight, angled, or curved to accommodate differentexercises. The length of the resilient member preferably ranges fromapproximately twelve inches to approximately sixty inches depending onthe exercise the resilient member is to be used for. However, the lengthis not so limited. The diameter or cross-sectional width of theresilient member can similarly vary between approximately one-half inchto two inches, depending on the desired stiffness and other factors,such as user comfort, but is preferably in the range of one inch to oneand a half inches. The cap 72 and insert 64 can be manufactured from anyrigid material, e.g., a polymer, metal or metal alloy,plastic-fiberglass or other fiber composite, or any other suitably rigidmaterial.

The geometry of the connection interfaces 56 can be generallycylindrical or conical, or can be of any cross-sectional geometry,square, hexagonal, or otherwise. The geometry of the embodiment of theconnection interface 56 x illustrated in FIG. 24a is cylindrical,defining a cylindrical interior portion 56 x′ into which resilientmember 62 f is inserted. Connection interface 56 x protrudes from thebase 30 a sufficient distance, preferably three inches, to ensure thatthe resilient member is securely engaged. The embodiment of theconnection interface 56 y illustrated in FIG. 24b is configured as acylindrical projection projecting from the base. Resilient member 62 gis attached to connection interface 56 y such that the connectioninterface 56 y fits snuggly into the cylindrical opening 62 g″ in theend of the resilient member 62 g. Connection interface 56 y protrudesfrom the base 30 a sufficient distance, preferably three inches, toensure that the resilient member is securely engaged. The connectioninterface 56 z illustrated in FIG. 24c is formed of a square cutout inbase 30. The portion of the resilient member 62 h″ that is inserted intoconnection interface 56 z has an outer surface geometry thatsubstantially matches the geometry of the interior surface of theconnection interface 56 z but is sized to fit snuggly within theconnection interface 56 z. Further, the end of the resilient member 62that is attached to a connection interface, i.e., either the end of theresilient member 62′ or the insert 64, can be threaded, notched, orcontain some other protrusion to prevent it from becoming inadvertentlyunattached from the connection interface 56. The connection interface 56would also comprise complementary locking features. Alternatively, theresilient member 62 can be devoid of any locking features on itsexterior surface so that it can be easily removed from the connectioninterfaces 56. A connection interface defining a defining a conicalgeometry is preferable because, when the surface of the resilient memberthat mates with the connection interface is also conical, the resilientmember can be inserted firmly to ensure a snug fit between theconnection interface and the resilient member.

It is believed that the exercise apparatus of the present invention willbe understood from the foregoing description, and it will be apparentthat various changes may be made in the form, construction andarrangement of the parts without departing from the spirit or scope ofthe invention or sacrificing all of the material advantages, the formsherein above described being merely preferred or exemplary embodimentsthereof.

The following detailed description is now directed to certain specificembodiments of the present disclosure. In this description, reference ismade to the drawings wherein like parts are designated with likenumerals throughout the description and the drawings.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise device140. The exercise device 140 can comprise a base 142 and resilientmembers 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 142 can beconfigured to be free standing on a generally flat, horizontal surfaceso as to provide a supporting surface for a user of the exercise devicein a standing, sitting, kneeling, or any other desired position.However, the exercise device 140 is not so limited. In some embodiments,the base 142 can be attached to and, hence, supported by a horizontal,vertical or inclined surface, or can be configured to be free standingin a vertical or any angular orientation. As used in this document, anyreference to “some embodiments” or to any embodiment or componentdisclosed “herein” is meant to refer to any embodiments or componentsset forth explicitly or implicitly herein, and/or any embodiments orcomponents incorporated by reference herein.

As illustrated in FIGS. 25-26, the base 142 can comprise a supportingbase member 146, a pair of first base interface members 148 a, a pair ofsecond base interface members 148 b, a pair of third base interfacemembers 148 c, a pair of fourth base interface members 148 d, and aplurality of base connection members 150 can be made from steel,aluminum, or any other suitable rigid material and secured to the baseinterface members 148 a-148 d with a plurality of bolts or screws 152threadably engaged in the base interface members 148 a-148 d. However,the base connection members 150 can be directly or indirectly secured tothe base interface members 148 a-148 d by any other means, including butnot limited to the use of welds, rivets, adhesive, fusion, or by anyother suitable method or method known in the art. In addition, the baseconnection members 150 can be secured directly to the supporting basemember 146. Alternatively, any of the base connection members 150 can beintegrally formed with one or more of the base interface members 148a-148 d.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base 142 can also comprise supportrails 154 can be bolted to the supporting base member 146 with aplurality of bolts or screws 156, as well as cross-members (not shown)spanning substantially laterally between the support rails 154. In theillustrated embodiment, there can be four equally spaced cross-membersspanning substantially laterally between the support rails 154 toincrease the rigidity of the supporting base member 146. The supportrails 154 and cross-members can also be secured to the supporting basemember 146 by any other suitable means, including but not limited to theuse of welds, rivets, adhesive, fusion, or by any other suitable methodor method known in the art. In some embodiments, the base 142 can besized and configured such that support rails and other supportingcomponents or members can be not needed. The support rails 154 andcross-members can increase the rigidity and support strength of the base142 to provide a beneficial support surface for the user of the exercisedevice 140 in a standing, sitting, kneeling, or other position.

The base connection members 150 each can comprise a plurality ofconnection interfaces 158. In some embodiments, each of one or moreconnection interfaces 158 can be configured to provide a removablesecurement for an end portion of a resilient member such that theresilient member extends therefrom in a cantilevered disposition. Insome embodiments, each of one or more connection interfaces 158 can beformed of a channel either partially or fully protruding through one ormore base connection members 150. In some embodiments, each of one ormore connection interfaces 158 can be formed of a channel eitherpartially or fully protruding through the supporting base member 146.

In some embodiments, the connection interfaces 158 can define an innersurface having substantially the same geometrical configuration and sizeas an outer surface of the portion of the resilient member 144 that canbe secured to the connection interface connection interface 158.Alternatively, the connection interfaces 158 can be configured to beprotrusions extending from the supporting base member 146 or otherintermediary component. Accordingly, another embodiment of a resilientmember 144 can be configured to define an opening at or near the bottomthereof such that, when the opening on the resilient member 144 isinserted over the protruding connection interface, the resilient member144 can be secured thereto in a cantilevered disposition.

Each connection interface connection interface 158 can be configured toat least restrain one end of the resilient member 144 in a cantileveredfashion so that a user can perform exercises by grasping theunrestrained portion of one or more resilient members 144 in his or herhand or hands and, exerting a generally transverse force against theunrestrained portion of the resilient member 144, causes the resilientmember 144 to bend in flexure. The stiffness of the resilient member 144provides the resistance desired for performing the exercises. Theresilient member 144 can permit multi-directional resistance and can beused independently or simultaneously, permitting the user to performmultiple different exercises simultaneously.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise device,including a plurality of an embodiment of a resilient member positionedin a variety of locations and angular orientations. FIG. 27 illustratesthe wide ranging variety of locations and angular orientations that eachof the resilient members 144 can be positioned in relative to thesupporting base member 146. However, the number, location, andorientation of the base connection members 150 and the connectioninterfaces 158 of the exercise device 140 are not limited to the number,location, and orientation of the base connection members 150 andconnection interfaces 158 described or illustrated herein. The exercisedevice 140 can be configured such that the base connection members 150and connection interfaces 158 are widely ranging in number, location,and orientation.

In some embodiments, the connection interfaces 158 are arranged so as toby symmetrical about a plane bisecting the supporting base member 146and perpendicular to the supporting base member front edge 146 a so thatthe user can simultaneously perform identical exercise motions on theleft and right side of his or her body. However, the exercise device isnot so limited. The exercise device can permit a widely variable numberof locations and orientations of the connection interfaces 158 relativeto the user beyond those described above and illustrated herein. Thus,while the connection interfaces 158 can be symmetrically arranged, theexercise device is not so limited.

In the illustrated embodiment, the exercise device 140 can comprise abase connection member 150 a having eight connection interfaces 158 eachdefining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled approximatelyninety degrees relative to an axis A that can be normal to a top surfaceof the supporting base member 146, a base connection member 150 b havingeight connection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis (notshown) that can be angled approximately forty-five degrees relative toaxis A in a direction toward base member front edge 146 a, a baseconnection member 150 c having eight connection interfaces 158, eachdefining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled approximatelythirteen degrees relative to axis A in a direction away from base memberfront edge 146 a, a base connection member 150 d having eight connectioninterfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis (not shown) that can beangled approximately thirteen degrees relative to axis A in a directiontoward base member front edge 146 a, a base connection member 150 ehaving eight connection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis(not shown) that can be angled approximately twenty-six degrees relativeto axis A in a direction away from base member front edge 146 a, a baseconnection member 150 f having eight connection interfaces 158 eachdefining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled approximatelyparallel to axis A, and a base connection member 150 g having eightconnection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis (not shown)that can be angled approximately twenty-six degrees relative to axis Ain a direction toward base member front edge 146 a.

In some embodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise a baseconnection member 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158 eachdefining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled fromapproximately zero to approximately ten degrees relative to axis A in adirection away from base member front edge 146 a. In some embodiments,the exercise device 140 can comprise a base connection member 150 havingone or more connection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis(not shown) that can be angled from approximately zero to approximatelyten degrees relative to axis A in a direction toward base member frontedge 146 a. In some embodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise abase connection member 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158each defining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled fromapproximately ten to approximately twenty degrees relative to axis A ina direction away from base member front edge 146 a. In some embodiments,the exercise device 140 can comprise a base connection member 150 havingone or more connection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis(not shown) that can be angled from approximately ten to approximatelytwenty degrees relative to axis A in a direction toward base memberfront edge 146 a. In some embodiments, the exercise device 140 cancomprise a base connection member 150 having one or more connectioninterfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis (not shown) that can beangled from approximately twenty to approximately thirty degreesrelative to axis A in a direction away from base member front edge 146a. In some embodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise a baseconnection member 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158 eachdefining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled fromapproximately twenty to approximately thirty degrees relative to axis Ain a direction toward base member front edge 146 a. In some embodiments,the exercise device 140 can comprise a base connection member 150 havingone or more connection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis(not shown) that can be angled from approximately thirty toapproximately fifty degrees relative to axis A in a direction away frombase member front edge 146 a. In some embodiments, the exercise device140 can comprise a base connection member 150 having one or moreconnection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis (not shown)that can be angled from approximately thirty to approximately fiftydegrees relative to axis A in a direction toward base member front edge146 a.

In some embodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise a baseconnection member 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158 eachdefining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled fromapproximately fifty to approximately seventy degrees relative to axis Ain a direction away from base member front edge 146 a. In someembodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise a base connectionmember 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158 each defining acenterline axis (not shown) that can be angled from approximately fiftyto approximately seventy degrees relative to axis A in a directiontoward base member front edge 146 a. In some embodiments, the exercisedevice 140 can comprise a base connection member 150 having one or moreconnection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis (not shown)that can be angled from approximately seventy to approximately ninetydegrees relative to axis A in a direction away from base member frontedge 146 a. In some embodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise abase connection member 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158each defining a centerline axis (not shown) that can be angled atbetween approximately seventy and approximately ninety degrees relativeto axis A in a direction toward base member front edge 146 a. In someembodiments, the exercise device 140 can comprise a base connectionmember 150 having one or more connection interfaces 158 each defining acenterline axis (not shown) that can be angled from approximately ninetyto approximately one hundred and twenty degrees relative to axis A in adirection away from base member front edge 146 a. In some embodiments,the exercise device 140 can comprise a base connection member 150 havingone or more connection interfaces 158 each defining a centerline axis(not shown) that can be angled from approximately ninety toapproximately one hundred and twenty degrees relative to axis A in adirection toward base member front edge 146 a.

Finally, supporting base member 146 can comprise one or more basecut-outs 160 that can be formed through the supporting base member 146around the perimeter of the supporting base member 146, as illustratedmost clearly in FIGS. 25 and 27. The base cut-outs 160 can be sized andconfigured so as to secure therein one or more axial resistance bands orother similar exercise devices. This can allow the user to performadditional exercises when standing, kneeling, or sitting on thesupporting base member 146.

Referring again to FIGS. 25-26, the exercise device 140 can comprise apair of resilient members 144. The embodiments of the resilient members144 shown in FIGS. 25-26 each comprise a first member 162 (also referredto herein as an insert member or carrying member), one or morestiffening members 164, and a second member 166 (also referred to hereinas a handle member or retention member). In the illustrated embodimentand in every embodiment disclosed herein, each stiffening member can beformed from nylon, Delrin, polyvinyl chloride, or other suitablepolymers, resilient materials, or fiber-based materials, such asfiberglass or glass-filled polymers, or any combination or compositethereof or of any other suitable material. Additionally, in theillustrated embodiment and in every embodiment disclosed herein, eachstiffening member 164 can define a cylindrical cross-section, but maydefine any cross-sectional geometry such as a triangle, square, or anyother polygonal or any other suitable geometry.

In the illustrated embodiment, the handle member 166 can comprise ahandle retention portion 168 and a gripping portion 170. Withoutlimitation, the retention portion of any embodiment described herein canbe configured to provide lateral, or radial, support to the upper end ofeach of the stiffening members that are inserted therein. Further,without limitation, the gripping portion of any embodiment herein can beconfigured to provide a gripping surface for a user of the resilientmembers, to which a lateral force can be applied that will cause theresilient member to deflect, developing a resistance and effecting anexercising motion for the user. Additionally, other handles, bars, orgrips can be secured to the handle member of any embodiment describedherein to provide other gripping orientations and surfaces for the user.For example, without limitation, the handle member can be configured tosecure a single rubber or metal handle, a rope handle, or a “W” shapedbar thereto for this purpose.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 25-26, the retention portion 168and gripping portion 170 may be integrally formed from a single piece ofmaterial, which can be aluminum, a high strength polymer, or othersuitable material. In some embodiments, retention portion 168 andgripping portion 170 may be formed from two different pieces of materialand fixed together by adhesives, or one or more bolts, screws, rivets,or welds, or by any other suitable fastening method or combination ofthe foregoing. Either the retention portion 168 or gripping portion 170may be formed from a material of the group comprising plastic, aluminum,steel, fiberglass, or any other suitable material. The retention portion168 and gripping portion 170 can be rigid. In some embodiments, theretention portion 168 can be comprised of a material that has beneficiallubrication properties or a low coefficient of friction so as to permitthe stiffening member or members 164 secured by the retention portion168 to axially translate substantially unrestricted relative to theretention portion 168 when the resilient member 144 is deflected.

In the embodiment of the resilient member 162 a illustrated in FIGS. 37and 38, each insert 164 and each connection interface 156 can bethreaded or comprise other suitable locking features so that, when theinserts 164 are inserted into the connection interfaces, the inserts 164and, hence, the resilient members 162 a, will not become inadvertentlydisengaged during use. Each insert 164 also serves another function—toprovide a common interface with the connection interfaces. A resilientmember with a non-circular cross-section could not be securely insertedinto a cylindrical connection interface. An insert 164 with a circularcross-sectional portion can be affixed to the end of the non-circularresilient member so that the resilient member can be inserted into thecylindrical connection interface. Furthermore, an effective way to varythe resistance of the exercise can be to vary the cross-sectionalthickness of the resilient member 164. Attaching an insert 164 with aportion that matches the geometry of the connection interfaces 156 tothe end of each such varying resilient member would overcome themismatch that would otherwise prevent the resilient members of varyingcross-sectional configurations that do not match the configuration ofthe connection interfaces from inserting into the connection interfaces.Thus, each insert 164 provides an interface between the resilient memberand the connection interfaces so that resilient members of varyingdiameter or cross-sectional geometry can be inserted in the sameconnection interface.

The embodiment of the resilient member 180 illustrated in FIGS. 28A-30C(incorporated by reference) can comprise an insert member 182, one ormore stiffening members 190, and a handle member 192. Each insert member182 can comprise a retention portion 184 comprising a plurality ofopenings 186 through the top surface 184 a that can be formed at a depthso as to not pass through the bottom surface 184 b of the retentionportion 184, and a connection portion 188 that can protrude from thebottom surface 184 b of the retention portion 184. In some embodiments,the connection portion 188 can be an opening in the insert member 182configured to be secured by a protrusion extending from the base orsupporting base member. Additionally, the retention portion 184 and theconnection portion 188 can be integrally formed from a single piece ofmaterial, or can be formed from multiple different pieces of the same ordifferent material and joined together with welds, adhesive, screws,pins, threads, or other fastening means. In the illustrated embodiment,the retention portion 184 can be sized and configured to providecantilever support to the first or lower end portion of each of aplurality of stiffening members 190 in each of the openings 186.

The retention portion 184 in the illustrated embodiment, or theretention portion in any embodiment described herein, can define acircular cross-section, but may define any suitable cross-section suchas triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal ordesired shape. With the exception of the four openings 186 near theaxial center of the insert member 182, the openings 186 can be sized andconfigured to define an inside surface that can be geometrically similarto, but slightly larger than, the end portion of the stiffening member190 that can be supported in such opening 186 so that each of thestiffening members 190 can be removably inserted into each of thoseopenings 186, yet sized and configured to eliminate excess lateralmovement of the stiffening members 190 within the openings 186.Additionally, the retention portion in any embodiment described hereinmay comprise any desired or suitable number or configuration ofopenings.

However, in some embodiments, it can be preferred that the fourstiffening members 190 c positioned near the axial center of the insertmember 182 be sufficiently tightly secured to the insert member 182 sothat such stiffening members 190 c cannot be inadvertently removed fromthe insert member 182 when the resilient members 180 are being used.Accordingly, in some embodiments, the four openings 186 positioned nearthe axial center of the insert member 182 can be sized and/or configuredfor a tight or even an interference fit with each of the four stiffeningmembers 190 c that are supported therein. Additionally, adhesive,screws, pins, threads, or other fastening means can be used to securelyfasten each of the four stiffening members 190 c positioned within eachof the four openings 186 positioned at or near the axial center of theinsert member 182 so as to prevent the stiffening members 190 c frombecoming removed from the openings 186 when an axial force is exerted onsuch stiffening members 190 c.

In some embodiments, each opening 186 can define a circularcross-section. However, each opening 186 may define any suitablecross-section such as triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, orother polygonal or desired shape. Similarly, the end portion of each ofthe stiffening members 190 that can be supported by each opening 186 candefine a circular cross-section, but may define any suitablecross-section such as triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, orother polygonal or desired shape.

Similarly, each handle member 198 can comprise a handle retentionportion 194 comprising a plurality of openings 196 through the topsurface 194 a and the entire thickness of the handle retention portion194. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention portion 194 can definea circular cross-section, but may define any suitable cross-section suchas triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal ordesired shape. Each handle member 198 can also comprise a grippingportion 198 that can protrude axially from the top surface 194 a of thehandle retention portion 194. Additionally, in some embodiments, theholes 196 c located near the axial center of the handle retentionportion 194 can also penetrate through the bottom surface 194 b of thehandle member 198 and into a portion of the handle member 198 so as toalign with the holes 196 c located near the axial center of the handleretention portion 194.

In the illustrated embodiment, the handle retention portion 194 can besized and configured to provide radial or lateral support to the upperend portion of each of a plurality of stiffening members 190 in each ofthe openings 196. In some embodiments, with respect to the stiffeningmembers 190 c located near the axial center of the handle retentionportion 194, the handle retention portion 194 and openings 196 near theaxial center of the handle retention portion 194 can be sized andconfigured to provide lateral, axial, and rotational support to theupper end portion of each of the four stiffening members 190 cpositioned near the axial center of the handle member 192 so as torestrain the stiffening members 190 c from lateral, axial, androtational movement relative to the handle member 192. Accordingly, insome embodiments, one or more of the four openings 196 positioned nearthe axial center of the handle member 192 can be sized and/or configuredfor a tight or even an interference fit with each of the four stiffeningmembers 190 c that are supported therein. Additionally, adhesive,screws, pins, threads, or other fastening means can be used to secureeach of the four stiffening members 190 c positioned within one or moreof the four openings 196 positioned at or near the axial center of theinsert member 192 so as to prevent the stiffening members 190 c frombecoming removed from the openings 196 when an axial force is exerted onsuch stiffening members 190 c. Additionally, the handle retentionportion in any embodiment described herein may comprise any desired orsuitable number or configuration of openings, not limited to thosedescribed herein.

In some embodiments, with respect to the stiffening members 190 clocated near the axial center of the handle retention portion 194, thehandle retention portion 194 can be sized and configured to providelateral, axial, and rotational support to the upper end portion of onlyone of the four stiffening members 190 c positioned near the axialcenter of the handle member 192. It may be preferable to provide axialsupport to only one of the stiffening members 190 c located near theaxial center of the handle retention portion 194 for a couple ofreasons. First, it can be preferable to provide axial support to atleast one of the stiffening members 190 c located near the axial centerof the handle retention portion 194 so that the handle member 192 willnot become inadvertently removed from the stiffening members 190 when anaxial force is exerted by a user on the handle member 192. Second, itmay be preferable to permit three of the four centermost stiffeningmembers 190 to freely translate in the axial direction because they arenot collinear with the neutral bend axis (not shown) of the resilientmember 180, but, rather, may be positioned off-center from the neutralbend axis (not shown). If each of the stiffening members 190 wereaxially restrained by the handle retention portion 194, because they areeach offset from the neutral bend axis (not shown) of the resilientmember 180, they may each experience an greatly increased stress whenthe resilient member 180 is deflected. This increased stress may causeeach of such stiffening members 190 to buckle or to fail. However, thestiffening members 190 that are not axially restrained at their secondportion can each have a neutral bend axis (not shown) that correspondswith their axial centerline, so as to avoid the heightened stresses thatwould otherwise be experienced by such stiffening members 190.

With the exception of the openings 196 for which axial restraint isdesired, as discussed above, each of the other openings 196 can be sizedand configured to define an inside surface that can be geometricallysimilar to, but slightly larger than, the end portion of the stiffeningmember 190 that can be supported in such opening 196 so that each of thestiffening members 190 can translate freely in the axial directionthrough each of those openings 196, yet sized and configured toeliminate excess lateral movement of the stiffening members 190 withinthe openings 196.

The handle member 198 can be secured to the handle retention portion 194such that the bottom surface 194 b of the handle member 198 can abut thetop surface 194 a of the handle retention portion 194. FIGS. 30A-30C areexploded perspective views of the embodiment of the resilient memberillustrated in FIG. 28A. In the embodiment illustrated therein, thehandle member 198 can be secured to the handle retention portion 194 bya plurality of bolts or screws 1100 passing through through-holes 1102(that can be recessed) and threading into corresponding threaded holes(not shown) in the handle member 198. Alternatively, the handle member198 can be secured to the handle retention portion 194 by any othersuitable method, such as by, but not limited to, welds, fusion, oradhesion.

FIG. 31B is a section view of the embodiment of the resilient memberillustrated in FIG. 28A taken along line 31B-31B in FIG. 31A. Asillustrated therein, the openings 196 in the handle member 198 can besized such that, if axial restraint of the stiffening members 190 clocated near the axial center of the handle member 192 is not desired,there can be sufficient space for the stiffening members 190 c totranslate axially therein. Additionally, as illustrated therein, each ofthe stiffening members 190 can define a chamfer at both of the endmostedges to facilitate the insertion of such stiffening members 190 intothe respective openings 186, 196.

FIGS. 32A-32D are perspective views of the embodiment of the resilientmember 180 illustrated in FIG. 28A, illustrating the addition of anembodiment of a stiffening member 190 to such resilient member 180. Asillustrated in FIG. 32A, the upper portion of the embodiment of thestiffening member 190′ that is desired to be installed in the resilientmember 180 can be first inserted through the opening 196′ in the handleretention portion 194 in the upward direction. The bottom portion of thestiffening member 190′ can be deflected outward due to the interferencewith the retention portion 184. As illustrated in FIG. 32B, thestiffening member 190′ can be continued to be translated axially upwardthrough the opening 196′ in the handle retention portion 194 far enoughsuch that the bottom edge of the stiffening members 190′ can be abovethe top surface 184 a of the retention portion 184. The bottom portionof the stiffening member 190′ can be then allowed to straighten so thatit can be inserted in the desired opening 186′ in the retention portion184. As illustrated in FIG. 32C, the stiffening member 190′ can betranslated axially downward through the opening 196′ in the handleretention portion 194 such that the bottom portion of the stiffeningmember 190′ can be translated downward into the opening 186′ of theretention portion 184. As illustrated in FIG. 32D, the stiffening member190′ can be continued to be translated axially downward through theopening 196′ in the handle retention portion 194 until the bottomportion of the stiffening member 190′ can be fully engaged in theopening 186′ of the retention portion 184. The resilient member 180 withthe additional stiffening member 190′ can be then ready to be used.

FIGS. 33 and 34A-34C are a perspective view and section views,respectively, of another embodiment of a resilient member 1110. Theembodiment of the resilient member 1110 illustrated in FIGS. 33 and34A-34C can comprise an insert member 1112, one or more stiffeningmembers 1120, and a handle member 1122. Each insert member 1112 cancomprise a retention portion 1114 comprising a plurality of openings1116 through the top surface 1114 a that can be at a depth so as to notpass through the bottom surface 1114 b of the retention portion 1114,and a connection portion 1118 that can protrude from the bottom surface1114 b of the retention portion 1114. In the illustrated embodiment, theretention portion 1114 can be sized and configured to provide cantileversupport to the lower end portion of each of a plurality of stiffeningmembers 1120 in each of the openings 1116. In the illustratedembodiment, the retention portion 1114 can define a circularcross-section, but may define any suitable cross-section such astriangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal or desiredshape. With the exception of the opening 1116 at or near the axialcenter of the insert member 1112, the openings 1116 can be sized andconfigured to define an inside surface that can be geometrically similarto, but slightly larger than, the end portion of the stiffening member1120 that can be supported in such opening 1116 so that each of thestiffening members 1120 can be removably inserted into each of thoseopenings 1116, yet sized and configured to eliminate excess lateralmovement of the stiffening members 1120 within the openings 1116.

However, in some embodiments, it can be preferred that the centermoststiffening member 1120 c be sufficiently tightly supported by the insertmember 1112 so that such stiffening members 1120 c cannot beinadvertently removed from the insert member 1112 when the resilientmembers 1110 are being used. Accordingly, in some embodiments, thecentermost opening 1116 can be sized and/or configured for a tight oreven an interference fit with the stiffening member 1120 c that can besupported therein. Additionally, the centermost stiffening member 1120 ccan be secured to the centermost opening 1116 c as described above so asto prevent the inadvertent removal of the stiffening member 1120 c whenan axial force is exerted thereon. The stiffening members 1120 can be ofany geometry, material, or size as disclosed above. In the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 34A-34C, the centermost stiffening member 1120 ccan be sized to have a larger cross-sectional area and, hence, to bestiffer than the radially positioned stiffening members 1120.

The handle member 1122 can comprise a handle retention portion 1124 anda gripping portion 1128. In the illustrated embodiment, the handleretention portion 1124 can be sized and configured to provide radial orlateral to the upper end portion of each of a plurality of stiffeningmembers 1120 that can be positioned in each of the openings 1126. Insome embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, the openings 1126 inthe handle retention portion 1124 can be formed so as to not penetratethrough the top surface of the handle retention portion 1124. In someembodiments, with respect to the centermost stiffening member 1120 c,the centermost opening 1126 c in the gripping portion 1128 can be sizedand configured to provide lateral, axial, and rotational support to theupper end portion of the centermost stiffening member 1120 c so as torestrain the stiffening member 1120 c from lateral, axial, androtational movement relative to the gripping portion 1128. Accordingly,in some embodiments, the centermost opening 1126 c in the grippingportion 1128 can be sized and/or configured for a tight or even aninterference fit with the stiffening member 1120 c that can be supportedtherein. Additionally, the stiffening member 1120 c positioned withinthe centermost opening 1126 c can be fastened as described above so asto prevent the stiffening member 1120 c from becoming inadvertentlyremoved from the opening in the handle gripping portion 1128 when anaxial force can be exerted on the gripping portion 1128.

As is illustrated most clearly in FIG. 34B, the gripping portion 1128can be positioned within an axial opening in the center of the retentionportion 1124. The gripping portion 1128 can be secured to the retentionportion 1124 by any suitable method or mechanism, such as by, but notlimited to, pins, rivets, bolts, screws, welds, adhesive, or othersuitable forms of fusion or adhesion. Additionally, referring to FIG.34B, the retention portion 1124, the radially positioned openings 1126(i.e., the openings 1126 surrounding the centermost opening 1126 c), andthe stiffening members 1120 are each sized so as to permit thestiffening members 1120 to translate axially within such openings 1126without interference from the inside top surface of the opening 1126when the resilient member 1110 can be deflected during use.

In some embodiments, the gripping portion 1128 can be made from plastic,steel, aluminum, fiberglass, or any other material (that can be rigid)or composite thereof. Similarly, in some embodiments, the retentionportion 1124 can be made from plastic, steel, aluminum, fiberglass, orany other material (that can be rigid) or composite thereof, and can becomprised of a material that has beneficial lubrication properties or alow coefficient of friction so as to permit the stiffening member ormembers 1120 secured by the retention portion 1124 to axially translatesubstantially freely relative to the retention portion 1124 when theresilient member 1110 is deflected.

Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 34A-34C, the radially positionedopenings 1126 can be configured so as to allow a user to easily add orremove a stiffening member 1120′ from the resilient member 1110. To addor remove a stiffening member 1120′ from the resilient member 1110, auser can first insert the upper portion of the desired stiffening member1120′ into the desired opening 1126′ in an upward direction until thebottom edge of the stiffening member 1120′ can be higher than the topsurface 1114 a of the insert member 1112. The user then inserts thebottom portion of the stiffening member 1120′ all the way down into thecorresponding opening 1116′ in the retention portion 1114.

FIGS. 35A-36B, and 37 are perspective views and an exploded view,respectively, of another embodiment of a resilient member 1140. Theembodiment of the resilient member 1140 illustrated in FIGS. 35-37 cancomprise an insert member 1142, one or more stiffening members 1150, anda handle member 1152. Each insert member 1142 can comprise a retentionportion 1144 comprising a plurality of openings 1146 through the topsurface 1144 a, that can be at a depth so as to not pass through thebottom surface 1144 b of the retention portion 1144, and a connectionportion 1148 that can protrude from the bottom surface 1144 b of theretention portion 1144.

In the illustrated embodiment, the retention portion 1144 can be sizedand configured to provide cantilever support to the lower end portion ofeach of a plurality of stiffening members 1150 in each of the openings1146. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention portion 1144 candefine a circular cross-section, but may define any suitablecross-section such as triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, orother polygonal or desired shape. With the exception of the opening 1146c at or near the axial center of the insert member 1142, the openings1146 can be sized and configured to define an inside surface that can begeometrically similar to, but slightly larger than, the end portion ofthe stiffening member 1150 that can be supported in such opening 1146 sothat each of the stiffening members 1150 can be removably inserted intoeach of those openings 1146, yet sized and configured to eliminateexcess lateral movement of the stiffening members 1150 within theopenings 1146.

However, it can be preferred that the centermost stiffening member 1150c be sufficiently tightly secured to the insert member 1142 so that suchstiffening members 1150 c cannot be inadvertently removed from theinsert member 1142 when the resilient members 1140 are being used.Accordingly, in some embodiments, the centermost opening 1146 can besized and/or configured for a tight or even an interference fit with thestiffening member 1150 c that can be supported therein. Additionally,the centermost stiffening member 1150 c can be secured to the centermostopening 1146 c as described above so as to prevent the inadvertentremoval of the stiffening member 1150 c when an axial force can beexerted thereon. The stiffening members 1150 can be of any geometry,material, or size as disclosed above. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 35-37, the centermost stiffening member 1150 c can be sized tohave a larger cross-sectional area and, hence, to be stiffer than theradially positioned stiffening members 1150.

In the illustrated embodiment, the handle member 1152 can be comprisedof a handle retention portion 1154 and a gripping portion 1158. Thehandle retention portion 1154 can be sized and configured to provideradial or lateral to the upper end portion of each of a plurality ofstiffening members 1150 that can be positioned in each of the openings1156. In some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, theopenings 1156 in the handle retention portion 1154 can be configured soas to penetrate through the top surface of the handle retention portion1154. In some embodiments, with respect to the centermost stiffeningmember 1150 c, the centermost opening 1156 c in the retention portion1154 can be sized and configured to provide lateral, axial, androtational support to the upper end portion of the centermost stiffeningmember 1150 c so as to restrain the stiffening member 1150 c fromlateral, axial, and rotational movement relative to the retentionportion 1154. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the centermost opening1156 c in the retention portion 1154 can be sized and/or configured fora tight or even an interference fit with the stiffening member 1150 cthat can be supported therein. Additionally, the stiffening member 1150c positioned within the centermost opening 1156 c can be fastened asdescribed above so as to prevent the retention portion 1154 frominadvertently moving or rotating relative to the stiffening member 1150c when an axial force is exerted on the handle gripping portion 1158 orretention portion 1154.

As shown most clearly in FIG. 38, in this embodiment, the grippingportion 1158 can be essentially the upper portion of the centermoststiffening member 1150 c that has passed through a center opening in theretention portion 1154. Additionally, referring to FIG. 36A, theretention portion 1154, the radially positioned openings 1156, and thestiffening members 1150 are each sized so as to permit the stiffeningmembers 1150 to translate axially within such openings 1156 withoutinterference from the inside top surface of the opening 1156 when theresilient member 1140 is deflected during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping portion 1158, which can bethe upper portion of the stiffening member 1150 c, can be made from aresilient material such as nylon, Delrin, polyvinyl chloride, or othersuitable polymers, resilient materials, or fiber-based materials, suchas fiberglass or glass-filled polymers. Similarly, in some embodiments,the retention portion 1154 can be made from plastic, steel, aluminum,fiberglass, or any other material (that can be rigid) or compositethereof, and can be comprised of a material that has beneficiallubrication properties or a low coefficient of friction so as to permitthe stiffening member or members 1150 secured by the retention portion1154 to axially translate substantially freely relative to the retentionportion 1154 when the resilient member 1140 is deflected.

Further, as with the resilient member 1110 described above, the radiallypositioned openings 1156 are configured so as to allow a user to easilyadd or remove a stiffening member 1150 from the resilient member 1140.To add or remove a stiffening member 1150 from the resilient member1140, a user can first insert the upper portion of the desiredstiffening member 1150 into the desired opening 1156 in an upwarddirection until the bottom edge of the stiffening member 1150 can behigher than the top surface 1144 a of the insert member 1142. The userthen inserts the bottom portion of the stiffening member 1150 all theway down into the corresponding opening 1156 in the retention portion1144.

FIGS. 38A-38C, and 38D are perspective views and a section view,respectively, of another embodiment of a resilient member 1160. Theembodiment of the resilient member 1160 illustrated in FIGS. 38A-38D cancomprise an insert member 1162, one or more stiffening members 1170, anda handle member 1172. Each insert member 1162 can comprise a retentionportion 1164 comprising a plurality of openings 1166 through the topsurface 1164 a, that can be at a depth so as to not pass through thebottom surface 1164 b of the retention portion 1164, and a connectionportion 1168 that can protrude from the bottom surface 1164 b of theretention portion 1164. In the illustrated embodiment, the retentionportion 1164 can be sized and configured to provide cantilever supportto the lower end portion of each of a plurality of stiffening members1170 in each of the openings 1166. In the illustrated embodiment, theretention portion 1164 can define a circular cross-section, but maydefine any suitable cross-section such as triangular, square,pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal or desired shape. In someembodiments, with the exception of the opening 1166 c at or near theaxial center of the insert member 1162, the openings 1166 can be sizedand configured to define an inside surface that can be geometricallysimilar to, but slightly larger than, the end portion of the stiffeningmember 1170 that can be supported in such opening 1166 so that each ofthe stiffening members 1170 can be removably inserted into each of thoseopenings 1166, yet sized and configured to eliminate excess lateralmovement of the stiffening members 1170 within the openings 1166.

However, the centermost stiffening member 1170 c can be sufficientlytightly secured to the insert member 1162 so that such stiffeningmembers 1170 c can be not inadvertently removed from the insert member1162 when the resilient members 1160 are being used. Accordingly, insome embodiments, the centermost opening 1166 c can be sized and/orconfigured for a tight or even an interference fit with the stiffeningmember 1170 c that can be supported therein. Additionally, in someembodiments, the centermost stiffening member 1170 c can be secured tothe centermost opening 1166 c as described above so as to prevent theinadvertent removal of the stiffening member 1170 c when an axial forceis exerted thereon. The stiffening members 1170 can be of any geometry,material, or size as disclosed above. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 38A-38D, the centermost stiffening member 1170 c can be sized tohave a larger cross-sectional area and, hence, to be stiffer than theradially positioned stiffening members 1170.

In the illustrated embodiment, a handle member 1172 can comprise only agripping portion 1178, which can also be configured to provide lateraland/or axial restraint to one or more stiffening members 1170. In theillustrated embodiment, the openings 1176 in the gripping portion 1178can be configured so as to not penetrate through the top surface of thegripping portion 1178. In some embodiments, with respect to thecentermost stiffening member 1170 c, the centermost opening 1176 c inthe gripping portion 1178 can be sized and configured to providelateral, axial, and rotational support to the upper end portion of thecentermost stiffening member 1170 c so as to restrain the stiffeningmember 1170 c from lateral, axial, and rotational movement relative tothe gripping portion 1178. Accordingly, in some embodiments, thecentermost opening 1176 c in the gripping portion 1178 can be sizedand/or configured for a tight or even an interference fit with thestiffening member 1170 c that can be supported therein. Additionally,the stiffening member 1170 c positioned within the centermost opening1176 c can be fastened as described above so as to prevent thestiffening member 1170 c from becoming inadvertently removed from theopening in the gripping portion 1178 when an axial force is exerted onthe gripping portion 1178.

In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping portion 1178 can be madefrom a substantially rigid material such as plastic, steel, aluminum,fiberglass, or any other material (that can be rigid) or compositethereof, and can be comprised of a material that has beneficiallubrication properties or a low coefficient of friction so as to permitthe stiffening member or members 1170 secured by the retention portion1174 to axially translate substantially freely relative to the retentionportion 1174 when the resilient member 1160 is deflected. Alternatively,the gripping portion 1178 can be comprised of any suitable materialregardless of lubrication or frictional properties, and the openings1176, or the openings of any embodiment of the gripping portiondescribed herein, can be coated or lined with a material havingbeneficial frictional or lubrication properties.

Further, as with the resilient member 1110 described above, the radiallypositioned openings 1176 can be configured so as to allow a user toeasily add or remove a stiffening member 1170 from the resilient member1160. To add or remove a stiffening member 1170 from the resilientmember 1160, a user can first insert the upper portion of the desiredstiffening member 1170 into the desired opening 1176 in an upwarddirection until the bottom edge of the stiffening member 1170 can behigher than the top surface 1164 a of the insert member 1162. The userthen inserts the bottom portion of the stiffening member 1170 all theway down into the corresponding opening 1166 in the retention portion1164.

FIGS. 39A-39C and 40 are perspective views and an exploded perspectiveview, respectively, of another embodiment of a resilient member 1180.The embodiment of the resilient member 1180 illustrated in FIGS. 39A-40can be similar to the embodiment of the resilient member 1160 describedabove, except that, in some embodiments, the handle member 1192 can beconfigured to provide a substantially freely rotating gripping portion1196. As illustrated in FIG. 40, the handle member 1192 can be comprisedof a handle retention portion 1194 and a gripping portion 1198.

The handle retention portion 1194 can be sized and configured to provideradial or lateral to the upper end portion of each of a plurality ofstiffening members 1190 that can be positioned in each of the openings1196. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 1196 in the handleretention portion 1194 do not penetrate through the top surface of thehandle retention portion 1194. In some embodiments, with respect to thecentermost stiffening member 1190 c, the centermost opening 1196 c inthe retention portion 1194 can be sized and configured to providelateral, axial, and rotational support to the upper end portion of thecentermost stiffening member 1190 c so as to restrain the stiffeningmember 1190 c from lateral, axial, and rotational movement relative tothe retention portion 1194. Accordingly, in some embodiments, thecentermost opening 1196 c in the retention portion 1194 can be sizedand/or configured for a tight or even an interference fit with thestiffening member 1190 c that can be supported therein. Additionally,the stiffening member 1190 c positioned within the centermost opening1196 c can be fastened as described above so as to prevent thestiffening member 1190 c from becoming inadvertently removed from theopening in the retention portion 1194 when an axial force is exerted onthe handle retention portion 1194.

As is illustrated most clearly in FIG. 40, the handle retention portion1194 can define a cylindrical outer surface 1194 c that can be sized andconfigured to be similar to, but slightly smaller in diameter than, theinside surface 1198 d of the gripping portion 1198 so that, when thegripping portion 1198 can be inserted over the outside surface 1194 c ofthe handle retention portion 1194, the gripping portion 1198 can besubstantially free to rotate about the handle retention portion 1194. Anextended portion 1194 d of the handle retention portion 1194 can besized and configured to provide a supporting surface 1194 e, to restrainthe axial movement of the gripping portion 1198 in the downwarddirection, while not substantially inhibiting the rotational movement ofthe gripping portion 1198.

Similarly, a cap member 1200, which can be bolted or screwed to the topof the handle retention portion 1194 with bolt 1202 passing throughopening 1204 in the cap member 1200 and threading into threaded hole1206 in the handle retention portion 1194 such that the bottom surface1200 b of the cap member 1200 abuts and can be secured against the topsurface 1194 a of the handle retention portion 1194. However, the capmember 1200 may be secured to the handle retention portion 1194 by anysuitable method. The cap member 1200 can be sized and configured toprovide a supporting surface 1200 b to restrain the axial movement ofthe gripping portion 1198 in the upward direction, while notsubstantially inhibiting the rotational movement of the gripping portion1198. The gripping portion 1198, or any gripping portion describedherein, can be made from plastic, rubber, aluminum, steel, fiberglass,or any other suitable material or combination or composite thereof.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a portion of an embodiment of aresilient member 1180′ that can be similar to the resilient member 1180described above, except for the following. First, the gripping portion1198′ of the handle member 1192′ can define a curved outer surface.Further, the fastener 1202′ used to secure the cap 1200 to the handleretention portion 1194 comprises a loop through which a handle or otheralternative grip can be attached, either directly or with the use of acarabiner or other linking member.

FIGS. 42A-42C, and 43 are perspective views and an exploded perspectiveview, respectively, of another embodiment of a resilient member 1210.The embodiment of the resilient member 1210 illustrated in FIGS. 42A-43can comprise an insert member 1212, one or more stiffening members 1220,and a handle member 1222. Each insert member 1212 can be similarlyconfigured as compared to other embodiments of the insert membersdescribed above.

The handle member 1222 can comprise a handle retention portion 1224comprising openings 1226. The handle member 1222 can also comprise agripping portion 1228, and a sleeve member 1230. The gripping portion1228 can be configured to fit within an opening 1224 d in the handleretention portion 1224 in a similar fashion as described above withrespect to resilient member 1110. The sleeve member 1230 can be size andconfigured such that the inner surface 1230 d of the sleeve member 1230has a similar size and shape as compared to, but slightly larger than,the outer surface 1224 c of the handle retention portion 1224 so thatthe sleeve member 1230 can be inserted over the handle retention portion1224. An extended portion 1224 e of the handle retention portion 1224can be sized and configured to provide a supporting surface 1224 f, torestrain the axial movement of the sleeve member 1230 in the downwarddirection so that the bottom surface 1230 b of the sleeve member 1230does not move below the supporting surface 1224 f of the handleretention portion 1224. Similar features or a similar or other suitablemeans can be used to prevent or inhibit the sleeve member 1230 frommoving in the upward direction once the sleeve member 1230 can bepositioned over the handle retention portion 1224.

In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 1226 can be configured so asto not penetrate through the top surface of the handle retention portion1224. In some embodiments, with respect to the centermost stiffeningmember 1220 c, the centermost opening 1226 c in the gripping portion1228 can be sized and configured to provide lateral, axial, androtational support to the upper end portion of the centermost stiffeningmember 1220 c so as to restrain the stiffening member 1220 c fromlateral, axial, and rotational movement relative to the gripping portion1228. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the centermost opening 1226 c inthe gripping portion 1228 can be sized and/or configured for a tight oreven an interference fit with the stiffening member 1220 c that can besupported therein. Additionally, the stiffening member 1220 c positionedwithin the centermost opening 1226 c can be fastened as described aboveso as to prevent the stiffening member 1220 c from becominginadvertently removed from the opening 1226 c in the handle grippingportion 1228 when an axial force is exerted on the gripping portion1228.

FIGS. 44A-44C are perspective views of a portion of the embodiment ofthe resilient member 1210 illustrated in FIGS. 42A-43, illustrating theaddition of an embodiment of a stiffening member 1220′ to such resilientmember 1210. As illustrated therein, the radially positioned openings1226 can be configured so as to allow a user to easily add or remove astiffening member 1220′ from the resilient member 1210. In someembodiments, to add a stiffening member 1220′ to the resilient member1210, a user can first insert the bottom portion of the stiffeningmember 1220′ into the desired opening 1216 in the insert member 1214(not shown). The user then slides the sleeve member 1230 in the upwarddirection until the bottom surface 1230 b of the sleeve member 1230 canbe above the top surface 1220 a′ of the stiffening member 1220′. Theuser can then exert a lateral force on the top portion of the stiffeningmember 1220′, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 44A, to push the topportion of the stiffening member 1220′ into the desired opening 1226′until the outer surface of the stiffening member 1220′ abuts the innersurface 1226 b′ of the desired opening 1226′, as illustrated in FIG.44B. The user then slides the sleeve member 1230 in the downwarddirection until the bottom surface 1230 b of the sleeve member 1230abuts the supporting surface 1224 f of the extended portion 1224 e ofthe handle retention portion 1224, as illustrated in FIG. 44C.Additionally, the handle retention portion 1224 can be configured to, orcan comprise features such as, but not limited to, detents or flexibletabs that bias or cause the stiffening members 1220 to be held withinthe openings 1226 during the period of time that the sleeve member 1230can be slid upward.

The embodiment of the resilient member 1240 illustrated in FIGS. 45A-45Bcan be similar in most respects to the resilient member 1210 describedabove, except that, in some embodiments, the sleeve member 1250illustrated in FIGS. 45A-45B can have a constricted upper portion thatdefines a through-hole 1254 that can be sized and configured to have adiameter that can be slightly larger than the diameter of the outersurface 1248 c of the gripping portion 1248. The constricted upperportion provides a supporting surface that prevents the sleeve member1250 from sliding down below the handle retention portion 1244. In thisconfiguration, there may not be any need for the extended portion 1224 eof the handle retention portion 1224 that is illustrated in FIG. 44C.

FIGS. 46 and 47 are a perspective view and an exploded perspective viewof another embodiment of a resilient member 1260. The resilient member1260 illustrated in FIGS. 46-47 can be similar to the resilient member1210 illustrated in FIG. 42A above, except as follows. The handle member1272 can comprise a handle retention portion 1274 comprising openings1276. The handle member 1272 also comprises a gripping portion 1278, anda sleeve member 1280. The gripping portion 1278 can be configured to fitwithin an opening in the handle retention portion 1274 in a similarfashion as described above with respect to resilient member 1110. Thesleeve member 1280 can be sized and configured such that the innersurface 1280 d of the sleeve member 1280 has a similar size and shape ascompared to, but slightly larger than, the outer surface 1274 c of thehandle retention portion 1274 so that the sleeve member 1280 can beinserted over, and rotate about, the handle retention portion 1274. Anextended portion 1274 d of the handle retention portion 1274 can besized and configured to provide a supporting surface 1274 e, to restrainthe axial movement of the sleeve member 1280 in the downward directionso that the bottom surface 1280 b of the sleeve member 1280 does notmove below the supporting surface 1274 f of the handle retention portion1274. A similar or other suitable means can be used to prevent orinhibit the sleeve member 1280 from moving in the upward direction oncethe sleeve member 1280 can be positioned over the handle retentionportion 1274, as illustrated in FIG. 46B. An annular member 1282 canthen be positioned over the sleeve member 1280. Alternatively, in someembodiments, the sleeve member 1280 could comprise a constricted upperportion configured to inhibit it from translated axially downward beyonda desired position, similar to the sleeve member 1250 described above.

FIGS. 48A-48C are perspective views of the portion of the embodiment ofthe resilient member 1260 illustrated in FIG. 47, illustrating theaddition of an embodiment of a stiffening member 1270′ to such resilientmember 1260. As illustrated therein, the radially positioned openings1276 and the sleeve member can be configured so as to allow a user toeasily add or remove a stiffening member 1270′ to or from the resilientmember 1260.

To add a stiffening member 1270′ to the resilient member 1270, a usercan first insert the bottom portion of the stiffening member 1270′ intothe desired opening 1266 in the insert member 1264 (not shown). The userthen rotates the sleeve member 1280 in either the clockwise orcounter-clockwise direction until the slot 1286 formed in the sleevemember 1280 can be sufficiently aligned with the desired opening 1276.The user can then exert a lateral force on the top portion of thestiffening member 1270′ to push the stiffening member 1270′ into thedesired opening 1276 until the outer surface of the stiffening member1270′ abuts the inner surface 1276 b of the desired opening 1276, asillustrated in FIG. 48A. The user can then rotate the sleeve member 1280in either the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction until the slot1286 formed in the sleeve member 1280 can be no longer aligned with thedesired opening 1276, as illustrated in FIGS. 48B-48C and is, rather,generally aligned with the outer surface 1274 c of the handle retentionportion 1274. Additionally, the handle retention portion 1274 can beconfigured to, or can comprise features such as, but not limited to,detents or flexible tabs that bias or cause the stiffening members 1270to be held within the openings 1276 during the period of time that theslot 1286 in the sleeve member 1280 can be aligned with a opening 1276in the handle retention portion 1274.

FIGS. 49A-49D and 50 are perspective views of an embodiment of aresilient member 1290 that can be similar to resilient member 180described above, except that the resilient member 1290 further comprisesa middle retention member 1298 that can be configured to restrain thestiffening members 1294 near the midpoint between the insert member 1292and the handle member 1296. The radially positioned openings 1300 in themiddle retention member 1298 (i.e., those positioned away from thecenter of the middle retention member 1298) can be configured to providelateral restraint to the stiffening members 1294, without substantiallyaxially restraining the stiffening members 1294.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice 1350. FIG. 29 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of theembodiment of the exercise device 1350 shown in FIG. 28. In someembodiments, the exercise device 1350 can comprise one or more resilientmembers 1352 and a base member 1354. In the illustrated embodiment, andin any embodiment described herein, the base 1354 (or any base describedherein) can be configured to be free standing on a generally flat,horizontal surface so as to provide a supporting surface for a user ofthe exercise device in a standing, sitting, kneeling, or any otherdesired position. However, the exercise device 1350 is not so limited.In some embodiments, the base 1354 or any portion thereof can beattached to and, hence, supported by a horizontal, vertical or inclinedsurface, or can be configured to be free standing in a vertical or anyangular orientation.

FIGS. 30 and 31 are a sectional view and enlarged sectional view,respectively, of the embodiment of one of the resilient members 1352shown in FIG. 28, taken through the longitudinal center of the resilientmember 1352. In some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, theresilient member 1352 can comprise a stiffening member 1356 and aninsert member 1358. The stiffening member 1356 can comprise an opening1360 formed therein configured to receive the inner portion 1358 a ofthe insert member 1358. In some embodiments, the opening 1360 can beformed so that the axial centerline of the opening 1360 can be collinearwith the axial centerline of the stiffening member 1356. In someembodiments, the opening 1360 and the inner portion 1358 a of the insertmember 1358 can have an approximately matching geometry, and can beconfigured to define one or more tapered portions having a reducedcross-sectional area. In some embodiments, the opening 1360 and theinner portion 1358 a can be tapered or otherwise be formed so that thecross-sectional area of the opening 1360 and the inner portion 1358 acan be reduced. In some embodiments, the insert member 1358 can be pressfit within the opening 1360, or otherwise adhered or secured within theopening 1360.

The portion of the insert member 1358 that extends past the end of thestiffening member 1356 can be configured to be supported in acantilevered disposition by an opening or connection interface of a basemember 1354, such as the connection interface 1366. In some of theembodiments, the insert member 1358 or portions thereof can define agenerally circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the insert member1358 can define a square, triangular, ovular, polygonal, or othersimilar or desired cross-section. Similarly, in any of the embodimentsdescribed herein, splines, teeth, protrusions, channels, notches, orother features configured to inhibit the resilient member from rotating(i.e., spinning) within or relative to the connection interface, can beformed on one or more surfaces of the insert member and/or theconnection interface to inhibit the resilient member from rotating(i.e., spinning) within or relative to the connection interface.

Additionally, some embodiments of the insert member 1358 can define astepped or tapered outer surface 1358 a having a cross-sectional areathat can be less at the distal end 1358 b of the insert member 1358 thanat the proximal end 1358 c of the insert member 1358. For example, insome embodiments, the outer surface 1358 a of the insert member 1358 canbe conically tapered toward the distal end 1358 b of the insert member1358 such that the portion of the insert member 1358 and near the distalend 1358 b defines a cross-sectional area that can be less than thecross-sectional area of the portion of the insert member 1358 near theproximal end 1358 c of the insert member 1358. The outer surface 1358 aof the insert member can be linearly or nonlinearly tapered, or candefine a stepped tapering surface as illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31. Theopening 1360 formed in the stiffening member 1358 can be formed so as tocomplement the geometry of the insert member 1358.

The base member 13 can have a supporting frame 1362. Any componentscomprising the base member 1354 or supporting frame, or any other basemember or supporting frame disclosed herein, can be formed from steel,aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, and/or any other suitable material,composite material, or combination thereof. Additionally, in someembodiments, generally arcuately shaped base connection members 1364 canbe supported by the base member 1354. In some embodiments (notillustrated), the base connection member 1364 can be generallyspherically shaped. The base connection members 1364 can be fixed to thebase member 1354, or can be supported by the base member 1354 in amanner that permits the base connection members 1364 to be rotationallyadjustable relative to the base member 1354. In some embodiments, aplurality of base connection members 1364 can be supported by the basemember 1354, each being mounted at a different location and/or angularorientation relative to the base member 1354.

The base connection members 1364 can define one or more connectioninterfaces 1366 that are configured to directly or indirectly supportone or more resilient members 1352. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 28 and 29, the connection interfaces 1366 can be cylindricallyshaped openings formed at various locations on the base connectionmembers 1364, defining various angular orientations relative to the base1354 such that, when the resilient member 1352 can be supported by aconnection interface 1366, the angular orientation of the longitudinalaxis of the resilient member 1352 relative to the base 1354 can beadjusted by changing the connection interface 1366 that defines thesupport for the resilient member 1352.

Additionally, the base connection members 1364 can be bolted, welded, orotherwise attached or mounted to the base member 1354 in a wide range ofangular orientations to further increase the range of the angularorientations of the connection interfaces 1366, each of which can definea removable or non-removable support for a resilient member 1352.Additionally, the angular orientation of the resilient member 1352 canbe further adjusted by using an insert interface 1370 that can beconfigured to be supported by a connection interface 1366. In someembodiments, the insert interface 1370 can define an insert portion 1372that can have any of the same features, geometries, or other details ofany of the other insert members disclosed herein. Additionally, in someembodiments, the insert interface 1370 can define an opening 1374 thatcan be configured to receive and provide cantilevered support to aninsert member of a resilient member, such as insert member 1358 of theresilient member 1352. In some embodiments, the resilient member 1352can be inserted into the insert interface 1370 by sliding the insertmember 1358 of the resilient member 1352 into the opening 1374 of theinsert interface 1370 in the direction defined by arrow A1. The insertinterface 1370 can be inserted into the connection interface 1366 bysliding the insert portion 1372 of the insert interface 1370 into theconnection interface 1366. In some embodiments, the insert interface1370 can be configured to alter the angle of the resilient member 1352relative to the connection interface 1366 by an angle betweenapproximately 0° and 180°. In the illustrated embodiment, insertinterface 1370 can be configured to alter the angle of the resilientmember 1352 relative to the connection interface 1366 by approximately90°.

In some embodiments, the insert portion 1372 of the insert interface1370 can be generally shaped so as to complement the geometry of a atleast one of the openings, such as the generally cylindrically shapedopening 1366. In this configuration, the insert interface 1370 can berotated about an axis A3 relative to the connection interface 1366 sothat the resilient member 1352 can be rotated about axis A3 relative tothe connection interface 1366 and, hence, the base 1354. In someembodiments, the insert interface 1370 can be configured to prevent suchrotatability.

FIGS. 32 and 33 are perspective views of another embodiment of anexercise device 1420. In some embodiments, the exercise device 1420 cancomprise one or more resilient members 1422, each comprising astiffening member 1424 and an insert member 1426. The resilient member1422 can be configured to be supported by one of a plurality ofconnection interfaces 1430 supported by a base member 1432. In theillustrated embodiment, the base 1432 can have a supporting frame 1434and can be configured to be free standing on a generally flat,horizontal surface so as to provide a supporting surface for a user ofthe exercise device in a standing, sitting, kneeling, or any otherdesired position. However, the exercise device 1350 is not so limited.In some embodiments, the base 1354 or any portion thereof can beattached to and, hence, supported by a horizontal, vertical or inclinedsurface, or can be configured to be free standing in a vertical or anyangular orientation.

In some embodiments, the connection interfaces 1430 can be generallycylindrically or conically shaped, and can be welded, screwed, bolted,or otherwise supported by the base member 1432. In some embodiments, theconnection interfaces 1430 can be rigid and can be formed from steel,stainless steel, aluminum, a composite material, or any other suitablematerial or combination of materials.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the exercise device1420, wherein the embodiment of the resilient member 1422 is shown in asection view and in a different orientation relative to the base member1432 as compared to the embodiment of the resilient member 1422 shown inFIG. 32. FIG. 35 is an enlarged view of a portion of the exercise device1420 shown in FIG. 34, and FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a portion ofthe embodiment of the resilient member 1422 shown in FIG. 32.

With reference to FIGS. 32-36, the resilient member 1422 can be mountedto or supported by the connection interface 1430 and, hence, the basemember 1432, by sliding the insert member 1426 of the resilient member1422 onto the connection interface 1430 such that the connectioninterface 1430 can be received by one of the openings 1428 (alsoreferred to herein as support openings) formed in the interface member1426. In particular, with reference to FIG. 33, the resilient member1422 can be removably mounted to the connection interface 1430 by movingthe resilient member 1422 in the direction defined by arrow A4 relativeto the connection interface 1430 so that the connection interface 1430can be received by one of the openings 1428 formed in the connectioninterface 1426. In some embodiments, the angular orientation of theresilient member (which can be defined by the longitudinal axis of theresilient member) relative to the base member 1432 can be adjusted bychanging the opening 1428 defining the removable support for theresilient member 1422.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connection interfaces 1430 can besupported by the base member 1432 in a generally perpendicularorientation relative to the base member 1432. However, the configurationof the exercise device 1420 is not so limited. In some embodiments, theconnection interfaces 1430 can be supported by the base member 1432 atany of a wide range of desired angular orientations relative to the basemember 1432. In some embodiments, a plurality of connection interfaces1430 can be supported by the base member 1432, each being mounted at adifferent location and/or angular orientation relative to the basemember 1432. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more of theconnection interfaces 1430 can be movably supported by the base member1432 so that a user can adjust the location and/or angular orientationof the connection interface 1430 relative to the base member 1432,similar to the adjustable base members such as, without limitation,adjustable base members 40 a, 40 b, and 40 c described in U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. US 2007/0072752, which is incorporated byreference herein.

Each interface member 1426 can define any desired number of openings1428 formed in the interface member 1426, formed at any desired angularorientation relative to the stiffening member 1424 of each resilientmember 1422. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface 1426 a orportions of the surface 1426 a of the interface member 1426 can begenerally arcuate. In some embodiments, the surface 1426 a or portionsof the surface 1426 a of the interface member 1426 can be generallyplanar, spherical, curved (arcuately or otherwise), or can define anydesired surface contour. In some embodiments, the interface member 1426can be formed from the same material or materials that are used to formthe stiffening member 1424, and can be integrally formed therewith orformed in a separate process and joined therewith.

In some embodiments, the openings 1428 formed in the insert member 1426or portions thereof can define a square, triangular, ovular, polygonal,or other similar or desired cross-section. In some embodiments, splines,teeth, protrusions, channels, notches, or other features configured toinhibit the resilient member 1424 from rotating (i.e., spinning) withinor relative to the connection interface 1430, can be formed on one ormore surfaces of the insert member 1426 (including, without limitation,one or more surfaces of the openings 1428) and/or the connectioninterface 1430 to inhibit the resilient member 1422 from rotating (i.e.,spinning) within or relative to the connection interface 1430. In someembodiments, the openings 1428 formed in the insert member 1426 orportions thereof can be configured to permit the resilient member 1422to rotate relative to the connection interface 1430.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice 1450. FIGS. 38 and 39 are a perspective view and an enlargedperspective view of a portion, respectively, of the embodiment of theresilient member 1452 shown in FIG. 37. In some embodiments, one or moreof the components of the exercise device 1450 can have the same orsimilar features, materials, geometries, or other details orconfigurations as any of the other components (similar or otherwise) ofthe other embodiments described herein.

The resilient member 1452 can be configured to support a centerstiffening member 1454 c as well as to removably support additionalstiffening members 1454. With reference to FIGS. 37-39, each of theresilient members 1452 can further comprise a first member or insertmember 1456 and a second member or handle 1458. Each of the stiffeningmembers 1454 can be generally resilient or bendable along a substantialor entire portion of its length and can be either removably ornon-removably supported by the openings 1460 formed in the insert member1456. The handle 1458 can also be configured to comprise openings (notillustrated) to either removably or non-removably support the stiffeningmembers 1454. Additionally, in some embodiments, the openings in thehandle member 1458 can be configured to permit one or more of thestiffening members 1454 to translate axially within its respectiveopening.

With reference to FIG. 39, the insert member 1456 can define one or moreopenings formed in the surface 1464 at different locations and/orangular orientations relative to a longitudinal axis of the resilientmember 1452. In some embodiments, the surface 1464 can be spherical.Some of the openings 1462 (also referred to herein as support openings),such as but not limited to opening 1462 a, can be formed at an anglethat can be approximately co-linear with the longitudinal axis of theresilient member 1452. Additionally, in some embodiments, any of theopenings 1462 can be formed at any of a wide range of angularorientations relative to the centerline axis of the resilient member1452. In some embodiments, the openings 1462 can be formed that an anglethat can be between approximately 0° and approximately 90°, or more,relative to the centerline axis of the resilient member 1452.

With reference to FIG. 37, each of the resilient members 1452 can besupported by inserting each of the resilient members 1452 onto aprotrusion 1470 supported by the base member 1472 such that theprotrusion 1470 can be received by one of the openings 1462 formed inthe insert member 1456. The protrusions 1470 can be configured tosupport each of the resilient members 1452 so that at least the insertmember 1456 of the resilient member 1452 supported by the protrusion1470 can be prevented from rotating (i.e., pivoting) relative to theprotrusion 1470 and hence, the base 1472.

Thus, by varying the opening 1462 and/or the protrusion 1470 thatdefines the removable support for the resilient member 1452, a user canadjust the location and/or angular orientation of the resilient member1452 relative to the base 1472 or the user. In some embodiments, thebase member 1472 can be removably or non-removably attached to orsupported by a horizontal, vertical, or other supporting surface suchas, but not limited to, a floor or ground surface, a wall, a door, orother suitable structure using bolts, screws, clamps, or any othersuitable fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the base member 1472can be configured to be free standing.

In some embodiments, the base portion 1474 can be removably ornon-removably attached to or supported by a horizontal, vertical, orother supporting surface such as, but not limited to, a floor or groundsurface, a wall, a door, or other suitable structure using bolts,screws, clamps, or any other suitable fastening mechanism, without theinclusion of the frame members 1476, resulting in a simpler apparatuswith fewer component parts. The base portion 1474, if so supported orattached without the frame members 1476, can be configured to define awider contact surface area relative to the supporting surface, such asby forming or attaching support tabs or wings to the base portion 1474so as to improve the stability and attachment strength of the baseportion 1474 when transverse forces are applied thereto as the resilientmembers 1452 are deflected from a longitudinal axis of the relaxedresilient member 1452 (i.e., flexed or bent).

FIGS. 40 and 41 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an exercise device 1500. In some embodiments, oneor more of the components of the exercise device 1500 can have the sameor similar features, materials, geometries, or other details orconfigurations as any of the other components (similar or otherwise) ofthe other embodiments described herein. The exercise device a 1500 candefine a base member 1502 and one or more resilient members 1504removably or non-removably supported by the base member 1502. The basemember 1502 can be formed from one or more frame members 1506, eachcomprising a first frame member 1508 and a second frame member 1510. Thebase member 1502 can be removably or non-removably attached to orsupported by a horizontal, vertical, or other supporting surface suchas, but not limited to, a floor or ground surface (denoted by F in FIG.41), a wall (denoted by W in FIG. 41), a door, or other suitablestructure using bolts, screws, clamps, or any other suitable fasteningmechanism. In some embodiments, the base member 1502 can be configuredto be free standing.

The base member 1502 can have a first base portion 1516 and a secondbase portion 1518, each comprising one or more openings 1520, each ofwhich can define a removable or non-removable support for a resilientmember 1504. The openings 1520 can be formed at any of a wide rangingvariety of locations and/or angular orientations on the first baseportion 1516 and second base portion 1518. Thus, by varying the opening1520 that defines the removable support for the resilient member 1504, auser can adjust the location and/or angular orientation of the resilientmember 1504 (which can be defined by the longitudinal axis of theresilient member) relative to the base 1502 or the user.

Each of the resilient members 1504 can define one or more stiffeningmembers 1524 and an insert member 1526. The insert members 1526 can eachdefine a support portion 1528, which can be configured to receive andprovide cantilever support to one or more stiffening members 1524, andan insertion portion 1530, which can be configured to be received bysome or all of the openings 1520 formed in the base member 1502. Thegeometry of the insertion portion 1530 can be configured toapproximately match the geometry of one or more of the openings 1520formed in the base member 1502. In some embodiments, the shape and sizeof each of the openings 1520, which can be cylindrical, conical, orotherwise, can be approximately the same or similar from one opening1520 to the next. The size and geometry of the insertion portion 1530 ofthe insert member 1526 can be independent of the size and geometry ofthe support portion 1528 of each insert member such that each insertmember 1526 can be configured to support one or more of a wide range ofsizes and shapes of stiffening members 1524 without affecting the sizeand shape of the insert portion 1530. In this configuration, a widerange of shapes and sizes of stiffening members 1524 can be supported bya uniformly shaped set of the openings 1520.

FIGS. 42 and 43 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an exercise device 1550. In some embodiments, oneor more of the components of the exercise device 1550 can have the sameor similar features, materials, geometries, or other details orconfigurations as any of the other components (similar or otherwise) ofthe other embodiments described herein. The exercise device 1550 candefine a base member 1552 and one or more resilient members 1554removably or non-removably supported by the base member 1552. The basemember 1552 can be formed from one or more frame members 1556, eachcomprising a first frame member 1558 and a second frame member 1560. Thebase member 1552 can be removably or non-removably attached to orsupported by a horizontal, vertical, or other supporting surface suchas, but not limited to, a floor or ground surface (denoted by F in FIG.43), a wall (denoted by W in FIG. 43), a door, or other suitablestructure using bolts, screws, clamps, or any other suitable fasteningmechanism. In some embodiments, the base member 1552 can be configuredto be free standing.

The base member 1552 can have one or more base portions 1566, each beingbolted, welded, or otherwise attached to or supported by the framemembers 1556 at a different location and/or angular orientation ascompared to one another. Each of the one or more base portions 1566 cancomprise one or more openings 1570. Each of the one or more openings1570 can define a removable or non-removable support for a resilientmember 1554. The openings 1570 can be formed at any of a wide rangingvariety of locations and, in some embodiments, angular orientations, oneach base portion 1566. Thus, by varying the opening 1570 that definesthe removable support for the resilient member 1554, a user can adjustthe location and/or angular orientation of the resilient member 1554(which can be defined by the longitudinal axis of the resilient member)relative to the base 1552 or the user.

Each of the resilient members 1554 can define one or more stiffeningmembers 1574 and an insert member 1576. The insert members 1576 can eachdefine a support portion 1578, which can be configured to receive andprovide cantilever support to one or more stiffening members 1574, andan insertion portion (not illustrated), which can be configured to bereceived by some or all of the openings 1570 formed in the base member1552. The geometry of the insertion portion (not illustrated) can beconfigured to approximately match the geometry of one or more of theopenings 1570 formed in the base member 1552. In some embodiments, theshape and size of each of the openings 1570, which can be cylindrical,conical, or otherwise, can be approximately the same or similar from oneopening 1570 to the next. The size and geometry of the insertion portion(not illustrated) of the insert member 1576 can be independent of thesize and geometry of the support portion 1578 of each insert member suchthat each insert member can be configured to support one or more of awide range of sizes and shapes of stiffening members 1574 withoutaffecting the size and shape of the insert portion of the insert member1576. In this configuration, a wide range of shapes and sizes ofstiffening members 1574 can be supported by a uniformly shaped set ofthe openings 1570.

FIGS. 44 and 45 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an exercise device 1600. In some embodiments, oneor more of the components of the exercise device 1600 can have the sameor similar features, materials, geometries, or other details orconfigurations as any of the other components (similar or otherwise) ofthe other embodiments described herein. The exercise device 1600 candefine a base member 1602 and one or more resilient members 1604removably or non-removably supported by the base member 1602. The basemember 1602 can be formed from one or more frame members 1606, eachcomprising a first frame member 1608 and a second frame member 1610. Thebase member 1602 can be removably or non-removably attached to orsupported by a horizontal, vertical, or other supporting surface suchas, but not limited to, a floor or ground surface (denoted by F in FIG.45), a wall (denoted by W in FIG. 45), a door, or other suitablestructure using bolts, screws, clamps, or any other suitable fasteningmechanism. In some embodiments, the base member 1602 can be configuredto be free standing.

The base member 1602 can have one or more base portions 1616, each beingbolted, welded, or otherwise attached to or supported by the framemembers 1606. Each of the one or more base portions 1616 can compriseone or more openings 1620. Each of the one or more openings 1620 candefine a removable or non-removable support for a resilient member 1604.The openings 1620 can be formed at any of a wide ranging variety oflocations and/or angular orientations on each base portion 1616. Thus,by varying the opening 1620 that defines the removable support for theresilient member 1604, a user can adjust the location and/or angularorientation of the resilient member 1604 (which can be defined by thelongitudinal axis of the resilient member) relative to the base 1602 orthe user.

Each of the resilient members 1604 can define one or more stiffeningmembers and an insert member. The insert members can be configured to bereceived by some or all of the openings 1620 formed in the base member1602. The geometry of the insertion portion of each insert member can beconfigured to approximately match the geometry of one or more of theopenings 1620 formed in the base member 1602. In some embodiments, theshape and size of each of the openings 1620, which can be cylindrical,conical, or otherwise, can be approximately the same or similar from oneopening 1620 to the next. The size and geometry of the insertion portionof the insert member can be independent of the size and geometry of thesupport portion of each insert member such that each insert member canbe configured to support one or more of a wide range of sizes and shapesof stiffening members without affecting the size and shape of the insertportion of the insert member. In this configuration, a wide range ofshapes and sizes of stiffening members can be supported by a uniformlyshaped set of the openings 1620.

Each of the frame members 1606 can further comprise a hinge 1632 betweenthe first frame member 1608 and a second frame member 1610 that can beconfigured to permit the second frame member 1610 to rotate relative tothe first frame member 1608. The hinge configuration can permit the basemember 1602 to be folded or collapsed during periods of nonuse, so thatthe exercise device 1600 can occupy a smaller volume of space so as tobe more easily stored. Hinged members 1644 and 1646 can be rotationallysupported by the first and second frame members 1608, 1610,respectively, to limit the range of rotation of the second frame member1610 relative to the first frame member 1608, and can provide additionalstructural support to the base member 1602. The hinged members 1644 and1646 can be attached to the first and second frame members 1608, 1610using fasteners 1648. The recessed portions 1644 a and 1648 a of thefirst and second frame members 1608, 1610, respectively, can beconfigured to permit the hinged members fold up nearly completely sothat the second frame member 1610 can lie approximately adjacent to thefirst frame member 1608 in the stowed configuration. Fasteners 1640 canbe used to fix the first frame member 1608 two and 180 desired orsuitable support structure.

FIGS. 46 and 47 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an exercise device 1700. In some embodiments, oneor more of the components of the exercise device 1700 can have the sameor similar features, materials, geometries, or other details orconfigurations as any of the other components (similar or otherwise) ofthe other embodiments described herein. The exercise device 1700 candefine a base member 1702 and one or more resilient members 1704removably or non-removably supported by the base member 1702. In someembodiments, the base member 1702 can be removably or non-removablyattached to or supported by a horizontal, vertical, or other supportingsurface such as, but not limited to, a floor or ground surface (denotedby F in FIG. 47), a wall (denoted by W in FIG. 47), a door, or othersuitable structure using bolts, screws, clamps, or any other suitablefastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the base member 1702 can beconfigured to be free standing.

The base member 1702 can have one or more first base portions 1718, eachof which can comprise one or more openings 1720, and a second baseportion 1722, which can also comprise one or more openings 1720. Each ofthe one first base portions 1718 can define any circular (asillustrated), square, rectangular, polygonal, or other suitable ordesired shape. The second base member 1722 can have a circular, annular,square, rectangular, polygonal, or other desired or suitablecross-sectional shape. The exercise device 1700 can be configured topermit multiple users to use the exercise device 1700 simultaneously.

Each of the one or more openings 1720 can define a removable ornon-removable support for a resilient member 1704. The openings 1720 canbe formed at any of a wide ranging variety of locations and/or angularorientations on the first base portion 1718. Thus, by varying theopening 1720 that defines the removable support for the resilient member1704, a user can adjust the location and/or angular orientation of theresilient member 1704 (which can be defined by the longitudinal axis ofthe resilient member) relative to the base 1702 or the user.

Each of the resilient members 1704 can define one or more stiffeningmembers and an insert member. The insert members can be configured to bereceived by some or all of the openings 1720 formed in the base member1702. The geometry of the insertion portion of each insert member can beconfigured to approximately match the geometry of one or more of theopenings 1720 formed in the base member 1702. In some embodiments, theshape and size of each of the openings 1720, which can be cylindrical,conical, or otherwise, can be approximately the same or similar from oneopening 1720 to the next. The size and geometry of the insertion portionof the insert member can be independent of the size and geometry of thesupport portion of each insert member such that each insert member canbe configured to support one or more of a wide range of sizes and shapesof stiffening members without affecting the size and shape of the insertportion of the insert member. In this configuration, a wide range ofshapes and sizes of stiffening members can be supported by a uniformlyshaped set of the openings 1720.

FIGS. 48 and 49 are perspective views of the top and bottom portions,respectively, of another embodiment of an exercise device 1800. In someembodiments, one or more of the components of the exercise device 1800can have the same or similar features, materials, geometries, or otherdetails or configurations as any of the other components (similar orotherwise) of the other embodiments described herein. In someembodiments, the exercise device 1800 can comprise a base member 1802and one or more resilient members 1804. In some embodiments, the basemember 1802 can comprise first and second base portions 1806 a, 1806 b,respectively.

In the illustrated embodiment, and in any embodiment described herein,the base 1802 (or any base described herein) can be configured to befree standing on a generally flat, horizontal surface so as to provide asupporting surface for a user of the exercise device in a standing,sitting, kneeling, or any other desired position. However, the exercisedevice 1800 is not so limited. In some embodiments, the base 1802 or anyportion thereof can be attached to and, hence, supported by ahorizontal, vertical or inclined surface, or can be configured to befree standing in a vertical or any angular orientation.

The base member 1802 can have a supporting frame 1812. Any componentscomprising the base member 1802 or supporting frame 1812, or any otherbase member or supporting frame disclosed herein, can be formed fromsteel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, and/or any other suitablematerial, composite material, or combination thereof. Additionally, insome embodiments, generally arcuately shaped base connection members1814 can be supported by the base member 1802. In some embodiments (notillustrated), the base connection member 1814 can be generallyspherically shaped. The base connection members 1814 can be fixed to thebase member 1802, or can be supported by the base member 1802 in amanner that permits the base connection members 1814 to be rotationallyadjustable relative to the base member 1802. In some embodiments, aplurality of base connection members 1814 can be supported by the basemember 1802, each being mounted at a different location and/or angularorientation relative to the base member 1802.

The base connection members 1814 can define one or more connectioninterfaces 1816 that are configured to support one or more resilientmembers 1804. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 48-49, theconnection interfaces 1816 can be cylindrically shaped openings formedat various locations on the base connection members 1814, definingvarious angular orientations relative to the base 1802 such that theangular orientation of the longitudinal axis of the resilient member1804 relative to the base 1802 can be adjusted by changing theconnection interface 1816 that defines the support for the resilientmember 1804.

Additionally, the base connection members 1814 can be bolted, welded, orotherwise attached or mounted to the base member 1802 in a wide range ofangular orientations to further increase the range of the angularorientations of the connection interfaces 1816, each of which can definea removable or non-removable support for a resilient member 1804.

The first and second base portions 1806 a, 1806 b can be assembledtogether by fastening the overlapping portions of the frame 1812 a withthe overlapping portions of the frame 1812 b. Configuring the basemember 1802 to comprise to removably attachable base portions 1806 a,1806 b can permit the base member 1802 to break down to a smaller sizeduring periods of nonuse of the exercise device 1800. An additionalcross-brace 1814 can be bolted or otherwise removably attached to thefirst and second base portions 1806 a, 1806 b to provide additionalstiffness and support to the base member 1802. One or more horizontalbase connection members 1820 can also be supported by the base member1802 to provide additional connection interfaces 1816 to support the oneor more resilient members 1804.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercisedevice, showing the exercise device in an operational position. FIG. 51is a perspective view of the embodiment of the exercise device shown inFIG. 50, showing the exercise device in a partially collapsed or foldedposition. In some embodiments, one or more of the components of theexercise device 1900 can have the same or similar features, materials,geometries, or other details or configurations as any of the othercomponents (similar or otherwise) of the other embodiments describedherein. In some embodiments, the exercise device 1900 can comprise abase member 1902 and one or more resilient members (not illustrated). Insome embodiments, the base member 1902 can comprise first and secondbase portions 1906 a, 1906 b, respectively.

In the illustrated embodiment, and in any embodiment described herein,the base 1902 (or any base described herein) can be configured to befree standing on a generally flat, horizontal surface so as to provide asupporting surface for a user of the exercise device in a standing,sitting, kneeling, or any other desired position. However, the exercisedevice 1900 is not so limited. In some embodiments, the base 1902 or anyportion thereof can be attached to and, hence, supported by ahorizontal, vertical or inclined surface, or can be configured to befree standing in a vertical or any angular orientation.

The base member 1902 can have a supporting frame 1912. Any componentscomprising the base member 1902 or supporting frame 1912, or any otherbase member or supporting frame disclosed herein, can be formed fromsteel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, and/or any other suitablematerial, composite material, or combination thereof. Additionally, insome embodiments, generally arcuately shaped base connection members1914 can be supported by the base member 1902. In some embodiments (notillustrated), the base connection member 1914 can be generallyspherically shaped. The base connection members 1914 can be fixed to thebase member 1902, or can be supported by the base member 1902 in amanner that permits the base connection members 1914 to be rotationallyadjustable relative to the base member 1902. In some embodiments, aplurality of base connection members 1914 can be supported by the basemember 1902, each being mounted at a different location and/or angularorientation relative to the base member 1902.

The base connection members 1914 can define one or more connectioninterfaces 1916 that are configured to support one or more resilientmembers (not illustrated). In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 50-51,the connection interfaces 1916 can be cylindrically shaped openingsformed at various locations on the base connection members 1914,defining various angular orientations relative to the base 1902 suchthat the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis of the resilientmember 1904 relative to the base 1902 can be adjusted by changing theconnection interface 1916 that defines the support for the resilientmember 1904.

Additionally, the base connection members 1914 can be bolted, welded, orotherwise attached or mounted to the base member 1902 in a wide range ofangular orientations to further increase the range of the angularorientations of the connection interfaces 1916, each of which can definea removable or non-removable support for a resilient member 1904. Thefirst and second base portions 1906 a, 1906 b can be joined together bya rotatable hinge 1920 that permits the base 1902 to be collapsed to astowed position. FIG. 51 illustrates the base member 1902 in a partiallystowed position for clarity. The base member 1902 can be configured tobe fully collapsed to break down to a smaller size during periods ofnonuse of the exercise device 1900. An additional cross-brace (notillustrated) can be bolted or otherwise removably attached to the firstand second base portions 1906 a, 1906 b to provide additional stiffnessand support to the base member 1902.

Other sizes, shapes, and configurations of the base, resilient members,base interface members, connection interfaces, or any other componentsor combination of components described herein or known in the art or toone of ordinary skill in the art can be used with the exercise device ofthis disclosure. For example, the components and assemblies described inU.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2007/0072752, published Mar.29, 2006, can be used to practice the exercise device of thisdisclosure. The entirety of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2007/0072752, is expressly incorporated by reference herein and made apart of the present specification as if fully set forth herein.

Although the embodiments in this disclosure have been disclosed in thecontext of a certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will beunderstood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments of thepresent disclosure extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodimentsto other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the embodiments of thepresent disclosure and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Inaddition, while a number of variations of the embodiments of the presentdisclosure have been shown and described in detail, other modifications,which are within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure,will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon thisdisclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations orsubcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodimentsmay be made and still fall within the scope of the embodiments of thepresent disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that variousfeatures and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined withor substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of thedisclosed embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, it is intendedthat the scope of this disclosure herein disclosed should not be limitedby the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

What is claimed is:
 1. An exercise device, comprising: a first baseelement supported by a support structure; a first set of connectioninterfaces supported by the first base element, the first set ofconnection interfaces comprising a first connection interface having afirst axial centerline and positioned at a first angular orientation anda second connection interface having a second axial centerline andpositioned at a second angular orientation that is different than thefirst angular orientation; and a pair of independently deflectableresilient members each configured to produce a resistance force when auser exerts a force thereon so as to deflect at least a portion of eachresilient member from the longitudinal axis of the relaxed position ofeach resilient member; wherein: each connection interface is configuredto provide a removable support for each resilient member so as tosupport each resilient member in a cantilever disposition; and the firstbase element is configured such that a user exercises while standing,kneeling, or sitting directly on a ground surface or on a seatedstructure directly supported by the ground surface.
 2. The device ofclaim 1, comprising: the pair of resilient members comprise a firstresilient member configured to be supported by any one of the connectioninterfaces in a cantilever disposition; and a second resilient memberconfigured to be supported by any one of the connection interfaces in acantilever disposition; wherein: the first and second resilient membersare configured to produce a resistance force when a user exerts a forcethereon so as to bend at least a portion of the resilient member,effecting an exercising of one or more muscles in the user's body; thefirst resilient member is stiffer than the second resilient member suchthat a greater force is required to bend at least a portion of the firstresilient member as compared to the second resilient member; and eachconnection interface is configured to support either one of the firstand second resilient members.
 3. The device of claim 1, comprising: thepair of resilient members comprise a first resilient member configuredto be supported by any one of the connection interfaces in a cantileverdisposition; and a second resilient member configured to be supported byany one of the connection interfaces in a cantilever disposition;wherein: the first and second resilient members are configured toproduce a resistance force when a user exerts a force thereon so as tobend at least a portion of the resilient member, effecting an exercisingof one or more muscles in the user's body; the first resilient memberhas a cross-sectional size that is different than the cross-sectionalsize of the second resilient member; and each connection interface isconfigured to support either one of the first and second resilientmembers.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the first base element issupported by a frame structure that is supported by the supportstructure.
 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the support structure is aground or a wall surface.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the firstbase element has a generally arcuate shape.
 7. The device of claim 6,wherein one or more of the connection interfaces are openings formedgenerally perpendicular to an arcuate surface of the first base element.8. The device of claim 1, further comprising a second base elementsupported by the support structure, the second base element comprising asecond set of connection interfaces supported by the second baseelement, the second set of connection interfaces comprising a thirdconnection interface having a third axial centerline and positioned at athird angular orientation and a fourth connection interface having afourth axial centerline and positioned at a fourth angular orientationthat is different than the third angular orientation.
 9. The device ofclaim 8, wherein: the first axial centerline and the second axialcenterline define a first plane; the third axial centerline and thefourth axial centerline define a second plane; and the first plane isnot coplanar with the second plane.
 10. The device of claim 8, whereinthe device is configured such that the first set of connectioninterfaces can be used by a first user and the second set of connectioninterfaces can be simultaneously used by a second user.
 11. An exercisedevice, comprising: a first base element supported by a support surface;a second base element supported by a support surface; a first set ofconnection interfaces supported by the first base element, the first setof connection interfaces comprising a first connection interface havinga first axial centerline and positioned at a first angular orientationand a second connection interface having a second axial centerline andpositioned at a second angular orientation that is different than thefirst angular orientation; the second base element comprising a secondset of connection interfaces supported by the second base element, thesecond set of connection interfaces comprising a third connectioninterface having a third axial centerline and positioned at a thirdangular orientation and a fourth connection interface having a fourthaxial centerline and positioned at a fourth angular orientation that isdifferent than the third angular orientation; and a plurality ofindependently deflectable resilient members each configured to produce aresistance force when a user exerts a force thereon so as to deflect atleast a portion of each resilient member from the longitudinal axis ofthe relaxed position of each resilient member; wherein: each connectioninterface is configured to provide a removable support for eachresilient member so as to support each resilient member in a cantileverdisposition; the first base element is configured such that a userexercises by deflecting one or more of the resilient members supportedby the first base element; and the second base element is configuredsuch that a user exercises by deflecting one or more of the resilientmembers supported by the second base element; and the second baseelement is positioned so as to be usable at the same time the first baseelement is being used.
 12. The device of claim 11, comprising: theplurality of resilient members comprise a first resilient memberconfigured to be supported by any one of the connection interfaces in acantilever disposition; and a second resilient member configured to besupported by any one of the connection interfaces in a cantileverdisposition; wherein: the first and second resilient members areconfigured to produce a resistance force when a user exerts a forcethereon so as to bend at least a portion of the resilient member,effecting an exercising of one or more muscles in the user's body; thefirst resilient member is stiffer than the second resilient member suchthat a greater force is required to bend at least a portion of the firstresilient member as compared to the second resilient member; and eachconnection interface is configured to support either one of the firstand second resilient members.
 13. The device of claim 11, comprising:the plurality of resilient members comprise a first resilient memberconfigured to be supported by any one of the connection interfaces in acantilever disposition; and a second resilient member configured to besupported by any one of the connection interfaces in a cantileverdisposition; wherein: the first and second resilient members areconfigured to produce a resistance force when a user exerts a forcethereon so as to bend at least a portion of the resilient member,effecting an exercising of one or more muscles in the user's body; thefirst resilient member has a cross-sectional size that is different thanthe cross-sectional size of the second resilient member; and eachconnection interface is configured to support either one of the firstand second resilient members.
 14. The device of claim 11, wherein thefirst base element and the second base element are supported by a framestructure that is supported by the support structure.
 15. The device ofclaim 14, wherein the support structure is a ground or a wall surface.16. The device of claim 11, wherein the first base element and thesecond base element each have a generally arcuate shape.
 17. The deviceof claim 16, wherein one or more of the connection interfaces areopenings formed generally perpendicular to an arcuate surface of thefirst base element and the second base element.
 18. The device of claim11, wherein: the first axial centerline and the second axial centerlinedefine a first plane; the third axial centerline and the fourth axialcenterline define a second plane; and the first plane is not coplanarwith the second plane.
 19. The device of claim 11, wherein the device isconfigured such that the first set of connection interfaces can be usedby a first user and the second set of connection interfaces can besimultaneously used by a second user.
 20. A method of exercising one ormore muscles of the body using an exercise device, comprising: standingdirectly on a ground surface; supporting at least a portion of at leastone resilient member with a first connection interface; grasping the atleast one resilient member with one's hand or hands; exerting a force onthe at least one resilient member so as to deflect at least a portion ofthe resilient member from the longitudinal axis of the relaxed positionof the resilient member and effect an exercising of one or more musclesin the user's body; and adjusting the angular orientation of thecenterline of the at least one resilient member from the first angularorientation to the second angular orientation by disengaging theresilient member from the first connection interface and supporting theresilient member with a second connection interface, the secondconnection interface having a different position and/or angularorientation compared to the first connection interface.